Periods are a natural phenomenon of the female reproductive system that occurs regularly for about 4 to 7 days every month. However, the menstrual cycle can vary from person to person.

While some women have regular periods with predictable cycles, other women may have abnormal periods. Here we will discuss why some women may have abnormal periods.

What Constitutes an Abnormal Period?

An abnormal period can mean many things. It could mean a period that lasts longer or shorter than usual, extremely heavy bleeding or spotting between periods. A few of the most common causes of abnormal periods include:.

Hormonal Imbalances

A hormonal imbalance occurs when there is an alteration in the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body. These two hormones help regulate the menstrual cycle.

If there is an underproduction or overproduction of either hormone, it can cause an irregular period. One of the significant cases of hormonal imbalance in women is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), which causes an increase in androgens or male hormones in addition to an increase in insulin levels.

Stress

Stress can cause changes to the menstrual cycle. It disturbs the hormonal balance by increasing cortisol (the hormone released in response to stress) levels, which may impact the menstrual cycle.

Stress management techniques like exercise, meditation and yoga can help reduce stress and minimize its impact on a woman’s menstrual cycle.

Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid disorders can disrupt the balance of hormones in the body. The thyroid gland regulates metabolism and helps maintain the right amount of hormones in the body. An underactive or overactive thyroid gland can lead to an irregular menstrual cycle.

For example, hypothyroidism may increase the production of the hormone prolactin, which can halt ovulation and menstruation.

Polyps or Fibroids

Uterine polyps and fibroids are benign growths that can appear within the uterus. These growths can interfere with the proper shedding of the uterine lining and lead to heavy or irregular periods.

Fibroids are more common in women over 35, but polyps can occur in women of all ages.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus also begins to grow outside of it. The tissue can grow on other organs like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and bladder.

Endometriosis can cause pain and discomfort during periods and lead to an irregular menstrual cycle.

PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome)

PCOS is a condition that occurs when a woman’s body produces too many male hormones. It can cause irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and hair loss.

Women with PCOS may also have multiple cysts on their ovaries, which can interfere with ovulation and the menstrual cycle.

Perimenopause and Menopause

As a woman approaches perimenopause and menopause, hormonal changes can cause an irregular menstrual cycle and eventually lead to periods stopping altogether. On average, women reach menopause at age 51, but it can occur earlier or later than that.

Medications

Certain medications can affect the menstrual cycle. For example, hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills, patches, and rings can alter the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body and lead to abnormal periods.

Opioids, antidepressants and some chemotherapy drugs can also impact the menstrual cycle.

Lifestyle Factors

A woman’s lifestyle can also impact the menstrual cycle. Alcohol and drug use, smoking, poor diet, and lack of exercise can all lead to an irregular menstrual cycle.

Eating a balanced and nutritious diet, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake can help maintain a healthy menstrual cycle.

Final Thoughts

While an irregular menstrual cycle may be alarming or inconvenient, it is typically not a cause for concern, provided it does not indicate an underlying health problem.

When in doubt, women should consult their healthcare provider to diagnose and treat the underlying cause of abnormal periods for a happier and healthier life.