Introduction

Your menstrual cycle might not always follow an exact schedule and that’s fine. Small differences in cycle length or a period that feels somewhat heavier or lighter than the last one can be part of what's normal. Menstrual irregularities happen often, and it doesn’t have to arrive on the exact same day each month to still be considered normal. Some examples of irregular periods include: When periods happen less than 21 days or more than 35 days apart. Skipping three or more periods in a row. Bleeding that is heavier or lighter than what you are used to. Periods that go on for longer than seven days. Periods may come with extreme pain, cramps, feeling sick, or even throwing up. You might notice bleeding or spotting between periods, after sex, or once menopause has started. In an hour, you may soak through one or more pads or tampons. Issues connected to irregular periods: Amenorrhea happens when your periods stop. Missing a period for over 90 days is unusual unless you're pregnant, nursing or in menopause, which occurs between 45 and 55. If you haven't gotten your period by the age of 15 or 16 or three years after your breasts have begun to grow, you might also have amenorrhea. Oligomenorrhea means your periods are not regular. You might have more than 35 days between your periods or six to eight periods per year. Dysmenorrhea describes painful periods along with bad menstrual cramps.

Why are My Periods Irregular?

Many things can lead to irregular periods. They might be caused by stress or deeper medical problems.

• Endometriosis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Primary ovarian insufficiency
• Thyroid or pituitary gland problems
• Bleeding disorders
• Uterine or ovarian cancer
• Stress can also mess up your period.
• Weight changes, whether it’s gaining or losing a lot.
• Exercise in activities like long-distance running, gymnastics, or dancing that lower body fat too much, might play a role.

Sometimes abnormal periods happen due to other factors.

• Issues related to pregnancy such as a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy
• Birth control and medications like blood thinners or steroids
• Breastfeeding
• Surgeries, scarring, or blockages in the uterus, ovaries or fallopian tubes can cause complications.

How do Doctors Identify Irregular Periods?

Doctors check for irregular periods by asking about your medical history and menstrual patterns. They do a physical exam that includes a pelvic check. They may also recommend the following tests: Pelvic ultrasound Endometrial biopsy Hysteroscopy

How do Doctors Treat Irregular Periods?

Treatment methods vary based on the reason behind the irregular periods. Medicines used for irregular periods:

• Hormonal birth control
• Tranexamic acid
• Painkillers
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Antibiotics if irregular bleeding is caused by an infection
• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists Surgery to treat irregular periods
• Endometrial ablation involves using heat, cold, or energy to eliminate the tissue lining the uterus.
• Myomectomy removes uterine fibroids, which can cause irregular bleeding.
• Uterine artery embolisation works by stopping blood flow to the uterus to address fibroids.
• Hysterectomy: In serious situations, doctors might need to do surgery to take out extra endometrial tissue growing in the pelvis or belly. If the uterus is damaged, they could recommend a hysterectomy as a last option.

How can I Reduce My Chances of Irregular Periods?

Here are some tips to follow:

• Focus on living healthy by eating good food and exercising at a steady pace. If losing weight is your goal, take it slow instead of using diets that cut down meals or calories.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Try methods like relaxation or stress relief exercises.
• Avoid overdoing it with long or extreme workout plans.
• Follow instructions when using birth control pills or other contraceptives.
• Switch tampons or sanitary pads every four to six hours to prevent infections and reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome.
• Visit a gynaecologist and your primary care doctor to stay healthy.