If you’re like most women, you probably have questions about irregular periods. What is a normal period?
What is the definition of an irregular menstrual cycle? What are the symptoms of an irregular menstrual cycle? What causes an irregular period?
Can a period go from regular to irregular? What can I do to make my periods regular again? What medication can I take to regulate my period?
In this blog post, we will answer all of your questions and provide you with information about what you can do if you have an irregular period.
What is a normal menstrual cycle/period?
The average menstrual cycle is 28 days long.
Most women have cycles that are between 21 and 35 days apart. A menstrual period typically lasts for three to seven days.
What is the definition of an irregular menses/menstrual cycle?
An irregular menses/menstrual cycle is one in which the length of time between periods varies by more than seven days.
Meaning, if your cycle is usually 28 days long and it suddenly becomes 21 days long, that would be considered an irregular menstrual cycle. The length of the menstrual period may also vary.
For example, you may have a period that lasts for only three days, and then the next month your period may last for seven days.
What are the symptoms of an irregular menstrual cycle?
There are a few different symptoms that may indicate you have an irregular menstrual cycle. They include:
- Having periods that last longer than seven days
- Bleeding or spotting between periods
- Bleeding more heavily than usual during your period
- Skipping periods
- Having more than one period in a month.
What causes an irregular period?
There are many different things that can cause an irregular period. Some of the most common causes include:
- Stress: Yes, something as simple as an increase in stress in your life can throw off your cycle.
- Changes in weight or diet: Substantial weight loss or gain can affect your period.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: These are both common reasons for missed or irregular periods.
- Exercise/Excessive exercise: Too much exercise can also disrupt your menstrual cycle.
- Travel: Changes in time zone can affect your cycle.
- Certain medical conditions: Such as Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). This is a hormone imbalance that can cause irregular periods.
- Menopause: As you approach menopause, your periods may become irregular.
Can a period go from regular to irregular?
Yes, a period can go from regular to irregular. This usually happens due to changes in lifestyle or hormone levels. If you notice that your periods have become irregular, it’s important to see your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
What can I do to make my periods regular again?
There are a few things you can do to try and make your periods regular again. Some of these include:
- Exercise–Moderate exercise can help to regulate your cycle.
- Maintain a healthy weight–Being either overweight or underweight can cause irregular periods.
- Manage stress–As we mentioned before, stress can be a big factor in disrupting your menstrual cycle. For some women managing stress includes things like yoga or meditation. Find what works for you.
- See your doctor–If you’ve tried these things and your periods are still irregular, it’s important to see your doctor. They can do an exam and may be able to prescribe medication to help regulate your cycle.
What medication can I take to regulate my period?
There are a few different types of medication that can be used to help regulate your period. These include:
- Oral contraceptives–These are also known as birth control pills. They contain hormones that can help to regulate your cycle.
- Bioidentical Hormone therapy (BHRT)–Using hormones that are similar to the ones your body produces to help regulate your periods.
If you are experiencing irregular periods, talk to your doctor. There are a number of things that can be done to help regulate your cycle.
Don’t suffer in silence, no matter what age you are there is help available!