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Irregular Periods
Irregular periods arise from deviations in the menstrual cycle, influenced by hormones, stress and health conditions. Early understanding is key for optimal health—let us guide you.
What is irregular menstruation?
Every woman's body dances to its unique rhythm, especially when it comes to the menstrual cycle. While many women anticipate their period with clockwork precision, others find their cycles to be less predictable, leading to what's termed as irregular menstruation. This irregularity can span from variations in cycle length to unexpected flow intensity and duration.
Such deviations can emerge due to a medley of reasons, from hormonal imbalances and lifestyle changes to certain medical conditions and medications. It's essential for every woman to recognize and understand the subtleties of her cycle, as it serves as a window into her overall reproductive health.
What are the symptoms of irregular menstruation?
Menstrual irregularities manifest in various ways:
- Periods occurring fewer than 21 days or more than 35 days apart
- Missing three or more consecutive periods
- Unusually heavy or light menstrual flow
- Periods lasting beyond seven days
- Severe pain, cramps, nausea or vomiting during menstruation
- Bleeding or spotting between cycles, post-menopause or after sexual activity
- Significant variances in cycle length, such as more than a nine-day difference between cycles
- Soaking through tampons or pads within an hour
What are the causes of irregular menstruation?
There are numerous causes of irregular menstruation, ranging from lifestyle factors to medical conditions:
- Medical conditions: Endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, polycystic ovary syndrome, primary ovarian insufficiency, thyroid or pituitary gland disorders, bleeding disorders and certain cancers can all lead to menstrual irregularities.
- Lifestyle factors: Stress, significant weight changes, certain exercise routines and illnesses can influence menstrual cycles
- Other causes: Birth control pills, certain medications, complications from pregnancy or breastfeeding, surgical interventions or blockages in reproductive organs can all cause irregular periods.
Types of irregular periods, treatment options and prevention
Are there different types of irregular periods?
Yes, several types of urinary incontinence exist, and it's not uncommon for individuals to experience more than one type:
Amenorrhea: This condition involves the complete cessation of periods. If you haven't menstruated by age 15 or 16 or if there's an absence of a period for 90 days or more (excluding pregnancy, breastfeeding, or menopause), it's considered amenorrhea.
Oligomenorrhea: Periods that occur infrequently, typically more than 35 days apart or only six to eight times a year.
Dysmenorrhea: Severe menstrual cramps and painful periods. Mild discomfort during the menstrual cycle is typical, but extreme pain is a cause for concern.
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: This encompasses bleeding between monthly periods, extended bleeding or extremely heavy periods.
Treatment options for irregular menstruation at Nuvance Health
Treatments vary depending on the root cause of the irregularity, but some treatments include:
Medication: Options include hormonal birth control, tranexamic acid, pain relievers, hormone therapy, antibiotics and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists.
Surgery: Depending on the specific condition and the individual's circumstances, surgeries such as endometrial ablation, myomectomy, uterine artery embolization or even hysterectomy might be recommended.
How to prevent and manage irregular periods
To potentially reduce the risk of irregular periods:
Maintain a balanced lifestyle with moderate exercise and a nutritious diet
Ensure adequate rest
Implement stress-reduction techniques
Avoid extreme exercise routines
Use birth control and other contraceptive methods as directed
Regularly change tampons or pads
Attend regular check-ups with your gynecologist and primary care provider
Your ally in navigating menstrual health.
Navigating the world of irregular menstruation can be daunting, but at Nuvance Health®, we prioritize understanding and addressing your unique needs. By placing you at the heart of what we do, our approach ensures personalized, supportive care throughout your journey. Curious about how we can assist? Let's embark on this journey together, aiming for the best health outcomes.
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