Menstruation is a natural process that occurs in women of reproductive age. It involves the shedding of the uterine lining, accompanied by hormonal changes.

While menstrual cycles typically last about 28 days, it is common for women to experience variations in their menstrual patterns. These changes can be influenced by a variety of factors, both intrinsic and extrinsic. Understanding these factors can help women gain insight into their menstrual health and seek appropriate medical advice if necessary.

In this article, we will explore ten key factors that can influence menstrual changes in women.

1. Hormonal Imbalance

Hormonal imbalance is a common factor that can affect menstrual cycles. Fluctuations in the levels of hormones like estrogen and progesterone can result in irregular periods, heavy bleeding, or even missed periods.

Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and hormonal contraceptives can contribute to hormonal imbalances.

2. Stress

Psychological and emotional stress can disrupt the normal functioning of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovaries, affecting the menstrual cycle.

Stressors such as work pressure, relationship problems, or major life events can lead to delayed or skipped periods, or the occurrence of irregular bleeding.

3. Weight Fluctuations

Drastic changes in body weight, both weight gain and weight loss, can impact the menstrual cycle. Women with very low body weight often experience irregular or absent periods due to hormonal changes.

Conversely, obesity can cause an excess production of estrogen, leading to irregular or heavy periods.

4. Excessive Exercise

Intense physical training or over-exercising, especially in athletes, can affect menstrual regularity. The combination of low body fat and high energy expenditure can disrupt hormone production, leading to amenorrhea (absence of periods).

5. Medications and Medical Conditions

Certain medications, such as anticoagulants, antipsychotics, and chemotherapy drugs, can interfere with the menstrual cycle.

In addition, underlying medical conditions like endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease can cause menstrual abnormalities.

6. Age and Menopause

As women approach their late 30s or early 40s, their menstrual cycles may become irregular due to perimenopause, the transitional phase before menopause.

During this time, hormone levels fluctuate, causing changes in the menstrual pattern until menstruation ceases altogether.

7. Birth Control Methods

Women using hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, patches, or intrauterine devices (IUDs), may experience changes in their menstrual cycles.

These methods alter hormone levels, which can result in lighter periods, irregular bleeding, or even complete absence of menstruation.

8. Poor Nutrition

A lack of proper nutrition, especially deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals, can impact menstrual health. Inadequate intake of iron, vitamin B12, or folate can lead to anemia, irregular periods, or heavy bleeding.

9. Environmental Factors

Exposure to environmental factors like pollution, toxins, or chemicals can disrupt the endocrine system, affecting hormonal balance and menstrual cycles. Prolonged exposure to such factors can lead to menstrual irregularities.

10. Certain Diseases

Medical conditions such as diabetes, celiac disease, or liver and kidney disorders can influence menstrual patterns. These diseases can affect hormone regulation, resulting in changes in menstrual flow or duration.