5 reasons for irregular periods

Verified by Dr. Vaishali Sakpal Rane (MBBS, DGO Obstetrics and Gynaecology, DNB Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

 Every woman is unique, and this uniqueness includes her menstrual cycle as well. Some cycles happen like clockwork. Some are sporadic and unpredictable. A women typically gets her period every 21 to 35 days. Usually, a period lasts between two and eight days.

Various factors might lead to irregular periods. The regular cycle of your menstruation might be thrown off by variations in the levels of the hormones progesterone and oestrogen in your body. Young girls going through puberty and people nearing menopause frequently experience irregular periods because of this changing level of hormones.

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Hormonal contraception

The mechanism of hormonal birth control is ovulation suppression. However, vaginal bleeding can still occur in persons who use hormonal birth control pills, patches, implants, and intrauterine devices (also known as IUDs). Similar to a regular menstruation, this bleeding could happen about once per month. Some people have spotting, irregular bleeding, lighter or heavier bleeding after beginning this method of birth control.

Stress

Period irregularities are linked to high levels of stress. This was verified in 2021 by researchers looking back at cycle regularity during the COVID-19 epidemic. Stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline are released by the body when a person is under stress. These may interact with the hormones that control menstruation during intercourse.

Polycystic ovary syndrome

The most typical symptom of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which develops when cysts build in the ovaries, is irregular periods. Androgens, or male sex hormones, are frequently present in high quantities in those who suffer from this illness. Ovulation may be stopped as a result, causing irregular periods.

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Underweight

Periods may become irregular if a person loses a lot of weight quickly. This occurs when certain brain regions quit secreting the hormones that affect the menstrual cycle. Hypothalamic amenorrhea is the medical name for it, and it causes an oestrogen shortage.

Exercise in excess

Excessive activity may also affect the hormones that control menstruation. Female dancers, athletes, and others who engage in rigorous training may experience this.

A variety of circumstances, including some medical disorders, can cause irregular periods. Although few of the causes of irregular periods are significant, there are few. If necessary, a doctor can identify the underlying problem and recommend remedies or other strategies.