Irregular periods may signal worse consequences for women
Irregular menstruation can be caused by various factors like hormones, pregnancy, poor sleeping schedules, dietary changes, and/or chronic stress. A normal cycle happens monthly, for around 21 to 35 days apart, and periods usually last for two to seven days.
Each woman has different durations, but you should be concerned when you start bleeding for more than a week and/or experiencing their next cycle after six months to a year, because you might have the following conditions:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
A telling sign of this condition is having fewer periods in a year, periods after 21 days or more, or stopped periods. PCOS is a hormonal disorder common among females as young as 15 years old; marked by enlarged ovaries that contain small clusters of fluid in each – the hormonal instability makes it difficult to get pregnant.
- Thyroid disease(s)
While the thyroid produces hormones that controls one’s menstrual cycle, too much or too little production can cause light to excessively heavy bleeding. Amenorrhea, a thyroid disease, will stop a period for several months but later includes complications like infertility or osteoporosis.
- Endometriosis
A painful condition whereby a tissue called the endometrium grows outside the ovary instead of lining the inside of it; the displaced tissue sheds and bleeds, but without a proper exit, becomes trapped and may form cysts. It is noted by extended, heavy periods and intense abdominal pain.
- Premature ovarian failure
Premature ovarian failure happens when the ovaries’ function stops before 40 years of age – females as young as 15 can experience “early menopausal” symptoms such asabsent periods, hot flashes and vaginal dryness.
- Uterine fibroid(s)
A pelvic exam or an ultrasound usually reveals these non-cancerous growths on the uterus which can cause heavy periods, abdominal cramps, and a constant urge to pee.
Irregular periods should signal alarms in reproductive health, so it’s best to get a doctor’s opinion for symptoms as mentioned above, before dire complications. Bring a companion to the OB-GYN if necessary, but don’t ignore your body.
Category: Health alert
