The most common causes of irregular menstruation

A foray into the complex universe of women’s health can help you understand the underlying causes of an irregular period. Certain laboratory analyzes can help diagnose this phenomenon, which allows intervention to regulate the menstrual cycle. Adequate treatment not only increases the chances of conceiving a baby, but also contributes to maintaining health and improving the quality of life.

Common causes of an irregular period

The causes of an irregular period can be multiple, and among the most common are hormonal changes. A hormonal imbalance can be caused by a number of factors, including polycystic ovary syndrome, early menopause, or problems with the glands that regulate hormones in the body. Polycystic ovary syndrome, for example, affects about 10% of women globally.

Another factor that can cause irregularity of the menstrual cycle is weight. Both being underweight and being overweight can have a significant impact on your menstrual cycle [1].

Stress and environmental factors are also common causes of irregular periods. Chronic stress, whether physical in nature, such as illness, or emotional in nature, such as problems at work or in personal relationships, can disrupt the menstrual cycle. About 20% of women experience menstrual irregularities during periods of intense stress [2].

Also, the use of contraceptives can lead to irregular periods. More than 50% of women who stopped using hormonal contraception reported irregular menstrual cycles in the first months after stopping use [3].

Laboratory analyzes necessary in the diagnosis of irregular menstruation

Hormone tests are usually the first type of test done, measuring levels of estrogen, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). These hormones play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and can be influenced by a variety of factors, including stress, diet and certain medical conditions. When the AMH analysis is recommended, the evaluation of the patient’s fertility is also followed. Tests for thyroid and adrenal gland function are also needed as both can affect the menstrual cycle.

The samples for these tests are a blood sample, which is taken by a nurse and then sent to the laboratory for analysis. Results are often available within days and are interpreted by a gynecologist or endocrinologist. Interpretation of the results involves a comparison of the patient’s hormone levels with normal values for women of the same age and stage of the menstrual cycle [1].

The meaning of the analysis results can be quite complex. High or low levels of certain hormones can indicate specific problems. For example, high androgen levels may indicate the presence of polycystic ovary syndrome, a condition that can cause irregular periods. On the other hand, low levels of estrogen and progesterone can indicate early menopause or premature ovarian failure [2].

If tests indicate a hormone problem, treatment may involve taking medication to regulate hormone levels. If tests indicate a problem with the thyroid or adrenal glands, treatment will be directed at those conditions.

Why is menstrual cycle regulation important?

The regulation of the menstrual cycle is of crucial importance for maintaining the reproductive health of women. A regular menstrual cycle is an indication that ovulation is occurring normally, which is essential for conceiving a child. About 20% of women with irregular menstrual cycles may have fertility problems.

Additionally, the menstrual cycle can be considered a barometer of a woman’s overall health. An irregular cycle can be a symptom of medical problems such as polycystic ovary syndrome, an overactive thyroid or hypothyroidism [1].

Prevention of long-term complications is another strong argument for the importance of regulating the menstrual cycle. An irregular cycle can lead to complications such as endometrial cancer.

Finally, regulating the menstrual cycle can significantly contribute to improving the quality of life. An irregular period can lead to physical discomfort and emotional stress. Many of the women with irregular menstrual cycle may suffer from anxiety and depression.

Irregular menstruation is a common diagnosis, but identifying the causes with the help of the right tests and intervention to remedy them can help regulate fertility and improve the quality of life. Talk openly with your specialist doctor about your problems so you can get the help you need!

Disclaimer: This article has a strictly informative role, and the information presented does not replace specialist control and diagnosis. If you experience unpleasant symptoms, consult a doctor as soon as possible. Only the specialist is able to assess your health and recommend the necessary tests or the appropriate treatment measures to improve the symptoms!

source:

Cleveland Clinic. “Abnormal Menstruation (Periods) | Cleveland Clinic.” Cleveland Clinic2019, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14633-abnormal-menstruation-periods, accessed 03/07/2024;
NHS. “Irregular Periods.” nhs.uk, 24 Oct. 2017, www.nhs.uk/conditions/irregular-periods/, accessed 07.03.2024;
“Why Is My Period So Random?” Why Irregular Periods Happen.” WebMDwww.webmd.com/women/why-is-my-period-so-random, accessed on 03/07/2024.