What Are Irregular Periods?

Irregular periods refer to menstrual cycles that fall outside the typical range of 21 to 35 days or vary significantly month to month. They can be too frequent, infrequent, prolonged, or missed altogether. Common causes include stress, hormonal imbalances, thyroid issues, PCOS, or lifestyle changes. If left unaddressed, irregular periods may impact fertility and overall health. It’s important to understand the root cause and seek proper medical guidance.

Consult Dr. Sadhana Gosain, a trusted gynecologist in Delhi, for expert diagnosis and personalized treatment of irregular periods. Take control of your health today!

Causes of Irregular Periods

Irregular periods can result from a variety of factors, most commonly due to fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels. These hormonal changes are typical during puberty and as women approach menopause, often leading to irregular menstrual cycles.

Other common causes include:

• Use of an intrauterine device (IUD)
• Changing birth control methods or certain medications
• Excessive physical exercise
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Emotional or physical stress
• Thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism)
• Uterine polyps or thickening of the uterine lining
• Uterine fibroids

Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)

What Are the Symptoms of Irregular Periods?

The most common symptom of irregular periods is a missed or delayed period.

Other possible symptoms include:

• Changes in the duration, frequency, or heaviness of menstrual flow
• Vision changes
• Excessive facial hair growth (hirsutism)
• Hair thinning or hair loss
• Frequent headaches
• Milky discharge from the breasts (galactorrhea)
• Underdeveloped breasts

If you experience any of these symptoms along with irregular periods, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

Types of Irregular Periods

Irregular periods can manifest in various forms, each indicating a different pattern or issue related to the menstrual cycle. Common types include:

• Amenorrhea – Absence of menstruation, either by not starting periods by age 16 or a sudden stop for three months or more (excluding pregnancy).
• Cycle-to-Cycle Variation – Menstrual cycles that vary by more than 20 days in length.
• Dysmenorrhea – Painful periods accompanied by severe cramps.
• Intermenstrual Bleeding – Spotting or bleeding between regular periods.
• Menorrhagia – Excessively heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Oligomenorrhea – Infrequent periods occurring more than 35 days apart.
• Polymenorrhea – Frequent periods occurring less than 21 days apart.
• Prolonged Menstrual Bleeding – Periods lasting longer than eight days.

Shortened Menstrual Bleeding – Periods that consistently last less than two days.

Risk Factors

You may be more likely to experience irregular periods if you:

• Are obese or underweight
• Exercise excessively
• Have a genetic change in the FMR1 gene (linked to Fragile X Syndrome)
• Have an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia

Have a family history of early menopause or menstrual irregularities

Complications

Irregular periods can lead to several complications, especially related to fertility and pregnancy. If you had irregular periods before conception, you may be at a higher risk of:

• Developing preeclampsia during pregnancy
• Having a low-birth-weight baby

Additionally, irregular ovulation or absence of ovulation can make it more difficult to conceive. If you’re trying to get pregnant and have irregular cycles, consult a gynecologist or fertility specialist for personalized guidance and treatment.

When to See Doctor?

When Should I See a Doctor About Irregular Period Symptoms?

A regular menstrual cycle reflects your overall health. If you miss a period and you are not pregnant, breastfeeding, or approaching menopause, it’s important to consult a doctor. Missed or irregular periods can be a sign of an underlying health issue that requires medical evaluation and treatment.

Diagnosed

How Are Menstrual Irregularities Diagnosed?

To diagnose menstrual irregularities, your healthcare provider will begin by reviewing your medical history and performing a physical examination.

Your doctor will ask about:

• Your age when you first started menstruating
• Whether you are sexually active
• If you are currently pregnant
• Recent significant weight changes
• Your exercise routine
• Details about your typical menstrual cycles

If you are over 16 and have never had a period, a pelvic exam may be performed to check for signs of puberty.

Tracking Your Periods

It is helpful to keep a detailed record of your menstrual cycles, noting the start date, duration, and any symptoms or irregularities you experience. The first day of menstrual bleeding marks the start of your cycle.

Diagnostic Tests

To determine the cause of irregular periods, your doctor may order several tests, including:

• Pregnancy Test: Especially if you are sexually active.
• Androgen Test: Measures male hormone levels, which may indicate PCOS.
• Chromosome Evaluation (Karyotype): Checks for missing or rearranged chromosomes.
• CT Scan: Creates 3D images to examine kidneys, ovaries, and uterus.
• Hormone Challenge Test: Medication given over 7–10 days to trigger menstruation and assess estrogen levels.
• Hysteroscopy: A thin camera inserted through the cervix to inspect the uterus.
• MRI: Imaging of the brain or reproductive organs using radio waves.
• Ovary Function Test: Measures FSH, LH, and AMH levels to evaluate ovarian health.
• FMR1 Gene Screening: Detects mutations linked to ovarian insufficiency.
• Thyroid Function Test: Assesses thyroid hormone levels to identify thyroid disorders.

Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of reproductive organs.