Take Charge of Your Cycle!

 

Take Charge of Your Cycle!

By:Bhavana Jala Nerella

Irregular periods, also known as menstrual irregularities, can be a common concern for many women. Menstruation is the cyclic, orderly shedding of the uterine lining, in response to the interactions of hormones produced by the hypothalamus, pituitary, and ovaries. The menstrual cycle may be divided into two phases: the follicular or proliferative phase and the luteal or secretory phase. The length of a menstrual cycle is the number of days between the first day of menstrual bleeding of one cycle to the onset of menses of the next cycle.

The median duration of a menstrual cycle is 28 days, with most cycle lengths between 25 to 30 days. Patients who experience menstrual cycles that occur at intervals less than 21 days are termed polymenorrheic, while patients who experience prolonged menstrual cycles greater than 35 days are termed oligomenorrheic. The typical volume of blood lost during menstruation is approximately 30 mL. Any amount greater than 80 mL is considered abnormal. The menstrual cycle is typically most irregular around the extremes of reproductive life (menarche or the start of menstruation and menopause or the end of menstruation).

The luteal phase of the cycle is relatively constant in all women, with a duration of 14 days. The variability of cycle length is usually derived from varying lengths of the follicular phase of the cycle, which can range from 10 to 16 days. Research studies have shown that age, smoking status, pack-year, body weight, alcohol, perceived level of stress, marital status, educational level, and modifiable risk factor scores were associated with irregular menstruationAlso, perceived stress and educational level were significantly associated with menstrual cycle irregularity. Women who responded saying that their perceived stress as ‘very much’ had 1.74 times higher risk of menstrual cycle irregularity.

As educational level was lowered, the risk of menstrual cycle irregularity also increased. The association between early menopause or irregular menstruation and women’s health, improvements in health behaviors should be emphasized in view of public health. Causes of Irregular Periods: The reproductive age of a woman comprises a large part of her life. Suffering from menstrual disorders, such as dysmenorrhea, endometriosis and premenstrual syndrome (PMS), can have serious implications in the lives of those suffering them, so it is important to diagnose these problems and treat them in the most appropriate way. 1. Medical conditions: a. Endometriosis: Abnormal growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus can cause irregular bleeding and severe pain during periods. b. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID):

An infection in the reproductive organs can lead to irregular periods, pelvic pain, and vaginal discharge. c. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Hormonal imbalances in PCOS can disrupt ovulation, resulting in irregular or absent periods. d. Thyroid or pituitary gland disorders: Imbalances in thyroid or pituitary hormones can affect menstrual regularity. e. Uterine fibroids: Benign growths in the uterus can cause heavy or prolonged bleeding, leading to irregular periods. 2. Lifestyle factors: a. Stress: Chronic stress can disrupt hormone production and lead to irregular periods. b. Weight fluctuations: Significant weight gain or loss can affect hormonal balance and disrupt the menstrual cycle. c. Intense exercise: Excessive physical activity, especially in athletes, can lead to irregular periods due to low body fat and hormonal changes. d. Poor nutrition: Inadequate intake of essential nutrients can impact hormone levels and menstrual regularity.

 

Prevention and Management: Prevention and management strategies for irregular periods focus on addressing the underlying causes and promoting hormonal balance. Here are some preventive measures to consider: 1. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: - Follow a balanced diet rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. - Engage in regular exercise to support overall health and hormonal balance. - Prioritize sufficient sleep and stress management techniques. 2. Seek Medical Evaluation: - Consult a healthcare provider if you experience persistent irregular periods or severe symptoms. - Undergo diagnostic tests to identify any underlying medical conditions contributing to menstrual irregularities. 3. Hormonal Birth Control: - Consider hormonal contraceptives prescribed by a healthcare provider to regulate periods and manage hormonal imbalances. 4. Weight Management: - Maintain a healthy weight range through a balanced diet and regular exercise. - Avoid extreme weight fluctuations that can disrupt hormonal balance. 5. Address Underlying Medical Conditions: - Follow the recommended treatment plan for conditions such as endometriosis, PCOS, or thyroid disorders. - Take prescribed medications as directed by a healthcare provider. Irregular periods can be distressing, but understanding the causes and implementing preventive measures can help promote regular menstrual cycles.

By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, seeking medical evaluation when necessary, and addressing underlying medical conditions, women can take proactive steps towards achieving menstrual regularity and overall reproductive health. If you experience irregular periods or have concerns, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance and appropriate management options.

 

References: Bae J, Park S, Kwon JW. Factors associated with menstrual cycle irregularity and menopause. BMC Womens Health. 2018 Feb 6;18(1):36. doi: 10.1186/s12905-018-0528- x. PMID: 29409520; PMCID: PMC5801702.