3 Causes of Irregular Periods

If you can’t seem to predict your period, don’t jump to the conclusion that there’s something wrong with your body.   

There are a lot of factors that contribute to this inconsistency. Here’s a look at each one of them.  

How can you tell if you’re having an irregular period?  

Your period can be considered irregular when: 

• The variation in your menstrual cycle deviates from the typical 28-day cycle 
• Your period has unpredictable timing  
• There’s a fluctuating flow  

 
There are different factors why you may be having an irregular period, and the most common reasons include: 

• Hormonal imbalance 
• Lifestyle factors  
• Medical conditions 

1. Hormonal imbalance 

Hormonal imbalances disrupt the menstrual cycle by altering the levels of estrogen and progesterone, both of which help in regulating menstruation. These imbalances may stem from conditions such as:  

• Thyroid disorders 
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) 
• Insulin resistance 
• Obesity 

Thyroid disorders 

Thyroid disorders, encompassing both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, play a crucial role in hormonal balance and directly influence menstrual cycle regularity.  

Hypothyroidism, characterized by an underactive thyroid, increases the production of estrogen, leading to a thickening of the uterine lining. This results in menstrual period that can be described as:  

• Heavier 
• More prolonged 
• More frequent  

 
The imbalance can also affect ovulation timing, which can also contribute to irregular cycles. 

Hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid is overactive, suppresses the release of estrogen and progesterone. Due to the reduced stimulation of the uterine lining, if you have hyperthyroidism, your periods may be: 

• Lighter 
• Shorter 
• Missed, at times  

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a significant hormonal disorder that causes the ovaries to enlarge and develop small cysts. This condition disrupts the balance of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.   

Insulin resistance and obesity 

Both insulin resistance and obesity are closely linked to hormonal imbalances that affect menstrual cycles. Elevated insulin levels can lead to increased androgen production by the ovaries, which in turn can disrupt the regularity of periods. 

2. Lifestyle Factors

Everyday habits also significantly influence menstrual health. Factors like stress, weight changes, and exercise routines can directly impact hormone balance and cycle regularity. 

Stress 

Both emotional and physical aspects of stress trigger the release of stress hormones like cortisol. Elevated cortisol levels can interfere with the production of estrogen and progesterone. This hormonal disruption can lead to:  

• Irregular periods 
• Missed cycles 
• Complete cessation of menstruation 

Extreme weight changes 

Extreme weight changes, including significant weight loss or gain, affect insulin levels and the production of estrogen and progesterone.  Low body fat, for instance, can lead to a decrease in estrogen, causing periods to stop, while excessive weight gain can lead to hormonal imbalances that cause irregular cycles.  

Excessive exercise 

Excessive exercise, particularly when involving high-intensity training, increases cortisol levels, which can interfere with the normal production of estrogen and progesterone. Over time, this can cause irregular periods or even stop menstruation altogether.  

3. Medical conditions 

Several medical conditions can also lead to irregular periods.  Uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) are among the most common causes. These conditions can lead to periods that often require medical attention for their: 

• Pain 
• Heaviness 
• Irregularity  

Uterine fibroids 

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths within the uterus that often lead to changes in menstrual cycle regularity and flow. They‘re believed to develop due to genetics and hormonal factors, like increased levels of estrogen and progesterone. 

Endometriosis 

Endometriosis is characterized by tissue, similar to the uterine lining, growing outside the uterus, which can result in painful and irregular menstrual cycles. The exact cause is unclear, but contributing factors include: 

• Genetics 
• Retrograde menstruation 
• Immune system dysfunction  

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) 

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), an infection of the female reproductive organs, can lead to irregular periods and severe reproductive health issues. It‘s often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia or gonorrhea, but other bacterial infections can also be responsible. 

How can irregular periods be diagnosed? 

To diagnose your condition, your healthcare provider will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and conduct a blood test. This process helps guide effective treatment based on your underlying condition. 

Medical history review 

A thorough medical history review is about understanding all these to your health status, symptoms, and menstrual cycle irregularities to shed light on potential causes of your irregular period. 

Physical examination 

Your healthcare provider will perform a comprehensive physical examination, including a pelvic exam, to evaluate your overall health status and identify any physical indicators that might elucidate the cause of the menstrual irregularities. 

 Blood tests 

Blood tests are indispensable for assessing the following:   

• Hormone levels 
• Thyroid function 
• Blood count  

 
These tests offer critical insights into hormonal imbalances or other underlying conditions that may be causing menstrual irregularities. 

How do you treat irregular periods?  

Treatment for irregular periods is tailored to the root cause, whether hormonal imbalances, lifestyle factors, or underlying medical conditions. Addressing these causes appropriately can help restore regular menstrual cycles and improve overall reproductive health. 

Hormonal therapies 

Hormonal treatments are often the first line of defence for managing irregular periods. Birth control pills, which regulate hormone levels, can help maintain a consistent menstrual cycle. If you have a more specific hormonal imbalance, progesterone therapy can help balance the levels of progesterone and estrogen in the body, which can lead to more predictable periods and improved uterine lining conditions. 

Lifestyle modifications 

Changes in lifestyle can have a significant impact on menstrual health, including:  

• A balanced diet.  Consuming a diet rich in essential nutrients can regulate hormone production. 

• Stress reduction techniques. Mindfulness, yoga, or regular exercise help manage the physical impact of stress on hormone levels.  

• Finding balance. Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding excessive exercise, and prioritizing sleep can also support menstrual regularity. 

Surgery for underlying conditions 

When irregular periods are caused by conditions such as uterine fibroids or endometriosis, surgery may be necessary.  

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure often used to treat endometriosis by removing or destroying abnormal tissue outside the uterus.  

Myomectomy, the removal of fibroids, is commonly performed for those with fibroid-induced menstrual irregularities, allowing for restored fertility and more predictable cycles.  

These surgeries aim to directly address the underlying medical issue to provide long-term relief from irregular periods. 

When to see a doctor 

It’s important to note that irregular periods are common and, in many cases, simply the result of natural body changes.  

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, approximately 30% of women experience irregular periods at some point in their lives, often due to hormonal fluctuations, stress, or lifestyle changes.  

However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, it may be time to see a doctor: 

• Periods are missed for several months. If you miss multiple periods or your periods stop completely, see a doctor to rule out conditions such as pregnancy, hormonal imbalances, or reproductive health issues. 

• Excessive bleeding. Heavy bleeding that soaks through one or more pads or tampons in an hour or lasts for several days may indicate underlying conditions like uterine fibroids, polyps, or hormonal disorders. Seek medical attention if this happens. 

• Painful periods. Severe pain or cramping during your period that interferes with daily activities could be a sign of endometriosis, fibroids, or other reproductive health issues. A doctor can help diagnose and treat the cause of the pain. 

• Irregular cycle length. If your menstrual cycle consistently varies by more than a few days, or if your periods last significantly longer or shorter than usual, it may be a sign of hormonal imbalance, thyroid problems, or PCOS. 

• Symptoms of menopause at an early age. If you’re under the age of 40 and experience signs of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and irregular periods, consult a doctor to explore potential causes such as premature ovarian failure or other health conditions. 

• Unexplained weight changes. Significant, unexplained weight loss or gain can disrupt hormone levels and affect menstrual cycles. If this happens alongside irregular periods, it’s essential to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. 

• Severe acne or hair growth. Excessive hair growth or severe acne, particularly if accompanied by irregular periods, could be linked to conditions like PCOS or other hormonal issues, which require medical attention. 

What should you do if you’re trying for a baby? 

When trying for a baby, managing irregular periods becomes even more crucial as it can impact fertility and the ability to conceive. At this stage, consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options. Achieving regular menstrual cycles not only improves overall reproductive health but also increases the likelihood of a successful pregnancy. 

Frequently asked questions 

What hormonal imbalances can lead to irregular periods? 

Hormonal imbalances involving estrogen and progesterone, the two hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle, often result in irregular periods. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome and thyroid disorders can also cause these imbalances. 

How does stress affect menstrual regularity? 

Stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that can interfere with the reproductive hormones, potentially leading to delayed ovulation and irregular menstrual cycles. Chronic stress exacerbates this effect, making cycles more unpredictable. 

Can weight fluctuations impact menstrual cycle regularity? 

Significant weight gain or loss can disrupt the hormonal balance and affecting ovulation and the menstrual cycle. Extreme body weight changes can lead to periods that are irregular, lighter, or even missed. 

Why might excessive exercise cause irregular periods? 

Excessive exercise can lead to a decrease in body fat essential for ovulation and menstrual regularity. This physical stress can also increase cortisol levels, further disrupting the menstrual cycle. 

How do contraceptives influence menstrual cycle regularity? 

Contraceptives, especially hormonal ones, can cause changes in menstrual cycle regularity. Initially, they may lead to irregular bleeding or spotting, but over time, they often regulate and may even reduce the frequency of periods. 

Key takeaway 

Irregular periods are a common experience for many women and are often caused by natural hormonal fluctuations, lifestyle factors, or underlying health conditions. Understanding these causes and monitoring your symptoms can help you take control of your menstrual health.  

If irregular periods persist or are accompanied by concerning symptoms like severe pain, heavy bleeding, or missed cycles, it’s recommended to seek medical advice.