Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Irregular Periods: Expert Advice

Irregular periods are definitely not the ideal situation, not only can they mess up your schedule, but it also reflects that your reproductive and hormonal systems are not working properly. A one-time missed or late period most likely will not be a problem but if irregularities become the norm, there should be no further dismissal.

Be it erratic bleeding, absent periods, or very heavy discharge, generally these are symptoms of deeper problems that need diagnosing and treatment.

Often, most of the women who come to us at Sarvesh Health City for consultation are the ones suffering infertility due to ignoring the symptoms or not seeking any treatment during early stages. But early intervention makes a big difference. This article will help you to discover the various reasons of irregular menstruation, associated health risks, and when to consult the best gynaecologist in Hisar for expert evaluation and care.

What Are Irregular Periods?

The normal period of a menstrual cycle is 21 to 35 days, where in the bleeding usually last from 4 to 7 days, depending upont he individual and their health. Nevertheless, there are many women for whom this rhythm will get disturbed, and the reasons for it can be very different, ranging from the hormonal changes to the medical conditions.

You can identify irregular period as and when:

• The difference between your period cycles gets shorter than 21 days or stretches for more than 35 days or more.
• Periods are missing more than three times.
• The menstrual flow is very heavy or light.
• If your period cycle continues even after 7 days. 
• There are unpredictable cycle lengths (for example, 28 days, then 38, then 25).
• You feel very bad cramping, sickness, or discomfort during periods.
• Spotting or bleeding apart from the cycle, after having sex, or after menopause. 

Although it is common to notice mild fluctuations in period, especially during adolescence or perimenopause. However, if you spot repeated irregularities, it’s a sign for prompt professional consultation.

10 Reasons You Shouldn’t Ignore Irregular Periods

1. Difficulty Conceiving

One of the major issues with irregular menstrual cycles is that they might have a negative effect on fertility. Women who have irregular ovulation may find it very difficult to conceive because if ovulation is not regular, fertilization will not be possible. It’s possible that you have been trying to make a baby, but have not been able to do so, and irregular cycles may be part of the problem that you didn’t know about.

2. Pregnant Without Knowing

Many times, irregular bleeding could be one of the reasons why the early pregnancy signs are not visible to you. The main reason and the biggest group of people are those women who are used to having irregular cycles. They could mistake even slight bleeding or the lack of menstruation with changes that are typical for such irregularities. At the very least, these signs may point towards early pregnancy, which requires immediate medical attention. 

3. Thyroid Disorders

It is known that both hypothyroidism (a condition due to an underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (due to overactive thyroid) are capable of causing a disruption in the regularity of the menstrual cycle. Symptoms such as sudden weight gain or loss, tiredness, sensitivity to hot or cold, unusual changes in heart rate with irregular periods may be a sign of a thyroid problem.  

4. Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are benign growths that may appear in the uterine wall, or on its inner or outer surface. These abnormal benign growths may cause heavy or prolonged period symptoms, pelvic discomfort, pain during sexual intercourse, or frequent urination. Fibroids are reversible, although they demand a proper diagnosis through imaging and clinical evaluation. 

5. Premature Menopause or Perimenopause

Menstrual irregularity is a very common sign of the hormonal changes that occur in perimenopause, which is the period before menopause (generally starts in the 40s) or in premature menopause (before age 40). Although it is natural, however, an early menopause can unfortunately increase the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, and emotional problems if it is not recognized and treated in time. 

6. Risk of Endometrial (Womb) Cancer

Due to irregular periods the ovulation period also gets disturbed, leading to heavy buildup of the uterine lining. Now, this lining becomes the source of endometrial hyperplasia and becomes the source of causing endometrial cancer. The risk further increases in women with obesity or those with a history of hormonal imbalance. It is suggested to get the timely screenings done to identify the underlying disease at earliest. 

7. Underlying Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is an endocrine disorder caused by the dysfunction of the reproductive system that is characterized by irregular periods, excessive hair growth on the face or body, acne, and sometimes weight increase. The condition also is one of the main reasons for infertility and is correlated with insulin resistance that can lead to type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases.

8. Other Hormonal Imbalances

Apart from PCOS and thyroid issues, the prolactin also becomes high as well as levels of estrogen and progesterone changes, due to irregular periods. However, endocrine imbalance may be very subtle and manifest only as alterations in the menstrual cycle. A hormone study will be a good diagnostic and therapeutic tool.

9. Chronic Stress and Lifestyle Factors

Long-term stress may adversely influence the hypothalamus, the brain area that regulates the menstrual cycle. The situation may also become worse by anxiety, insufficient sleep, bad nutrition, and dependence on substances like tobacco or alcohol. The relaxing and balancing techniques combined with lifestyle alterations, therapy, or stress-reducing methods such as yoga are definitely a step in the right direction. 

10. Endometriosis

This is a very painful condition that happens when the tissue which is similar to the uterine lining, is found outside the uterus. Firstly, it is the reason of very strong menstrual pain, irregular or heavy periods, and pain during the intercourse. It may lead to infertility in case it is left untreated. Such good treatment as medical or surgical can solve this problem to a great extent if it is done in time. 

Final Thoughts

Not paying attention to irregular periods can lead not only to problems with your reproductive system in the future but also can become a reason for long term health issues. Hormonal changes to severe conditions, like PCOS or cancer of the uterus, your period is the most important indicator of your body’s wellness.

If you have a doubts about your periods, don’t wait until the problem gets bigger. Our gynaecologist experts at Sarvesh Health City specializes in identifying and treating menstrual irregularities with utmost care, and medical perfection. Book a meeting with the best gynaecologist in Hisar today and get the first step done in restoring your periods and getting relief.