Irregularities In Menses – Causes & When To Consult With Doctor

Missing a period can be a source of anxiety for many women. Irregular periods can be a sign that something is wrong, and it's essential to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

This article discusses some possible causes of missed or delayed periods, along with symptoms and when to seek medical attention.

Irregular Periods and Fertility: Understanding the Connection

• Irregular periods can make it difficult for women to determine when they are ovulating, making it harder to conceive a baby.
• Women with irregular periods may have trouble getting pregnant due to inconsistent ovulation.
• Women who do conceive with irregular periods may have a higher risk of miscarriage or preterm labor.
• Some medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders, can cause irregular periods and may require treatment to improve fertility and increase the chance of having a healthy pregnancy.
• Certain medications, such as hormonal birth control or antidepressants, can also cause changes in menstrual cycle regularity.
• Women who are trying to conceive should track their menstrual cycles and talk to their healthcare provider if they have any concerns about irregularities or difficulty conceiving.

What is Irregular Menses?

Normal vaginal bleeding occurs during a woman's menstrual cycle, which can last from 21 to 35 days. A typical menstrual cycle lasts between four and seven days. However, women may experience irregular periods or menstruation that is early or late.

Women over 40 who are not pregnant may be turning menopausal, leading to irregular periods and sporadic ovulation.

What Are The Symptoms And Signs Of Irregular Menses?

Women with infrequent or irregular menstruation may exhibit the following symptoms:

• Menstrual cycles that are longer than a week
• Menstrual cycles longer than 35 days but less than 21 days
• Menstrual cramping, pain, vomiting, and nausea during menstruation
• Changes in blood flow, such as too much or too little bleeding, or a lung clot
• Three or more absences from class

What Causes Menstrual Irregularity?

Several factors can cause menstrual irregularities, such as:

• Hyperprolactinemia, which causes elevated prolactin levels, amenorrhea, and non-ovulatory cycles
• Weight Imbalance, rapid weight gain or loss that impacts the regularity of menstrual cycles
• PCOS, when a woman does not ovulate, leading to irregular or non-existent periods
• Uterine Fibroids, with symptoms like pain during menstruation, heavy bleeding, and irregular bleeding
• Platelet Disorders or Clotting Factor Deficiencies, causing heavy, prolonged bleeding during or after delivery
• Thyroid Imbalance, where menstrual cycles can become irregular when the thyroid is out of balance
• Birth Control Pills or IUD, which may cause a lightening of the menses
• Peritoneal Inflammation, causing menstrual irregularities and prolonged menstrual cycles with cramping and spotting
• Endometriosis, leading to an irregular menstrual cycle because the endometrium lining is shed every month during menstruation
• Eating Disorders, such as Anorexia and Bulimia, linked to low levels of reproductive hormones causing irregular menstruation
• Cancerous Growths in the Uterus and Cervix, causing bleeding between periods or during sex
• Blood-Thinning Medications or Anticoagulants, causing irregular periods and heavy bleeding
• Ovarian Cystinosis, characterized by the development of microscopic cysts causing erratic menstrual cycles.

Other causes factors:

• Various factors, such as poor diet, unhealthy habits, stress, over-exercising, and food allergies, can cause irregular periods.
• Stress during the menstrual cycle can restrict ovulation, while a poor diet low in nutrients, antioxidants, and probiotic foods can affect hormone balance.
• Over-exercising disrupts the normal functioning of adrenal, thyroid, and pituitary glands, and food allergies can negatively affect hormones, causing an irregular menstrual cycle.

When To Seek Medical Attention?

If you experience any of the above symptoms or causes, it's essential to consult a doctor. It's vital to keep track of your menstrual cycle to detect any irregularities or changes. A doctor may perform a physical exam, a pelvic exam, and blood tests to diagnose any underlying conditions.

Conclusion

Irregular periods are common, and several factors can cause them. However, it's crucial to consult a doctor if you notice any symptoms or changes in your menstrual cycle. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent any potential complications.

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