For most girls, especially those starting their menstrual cycle, period irregularities are common. Also, women in their premenopausal stage experience these irregularities. Some irregular periods in McDonough may also be caused by other factors. Are you experiencing heavy flows, bleeding, or spotting after intercourse or between circles or varying menstrual lengths?
Causes of Irregular Menstrual Flow
The causes of irregular periods range from stress to complicated underlying medical conditions. Some of these causes include:
- Lifestyle and stress factors. Distraction from your daily routine, such as significantly losing or gaining weight, routine exercise changes, illness, or traveling may impact your menstrual cycle.
- On and off use of pills controlling birth which contain progestin and estrogen.
- Presence of fibroids or uterine polyps. These are growths that are noncancerous and are attached to your uterine wall causing discomfort or pain during your menstruation.
- Endometriosis, a tissue lining your uterus, begins to have an outside growth from your uterus. It can attach itself to your fallopian or ovaries, or it can grow on your lower digestive region, including the intestines. It can result in pain during intercourse, before or during periods, and bleeding abnormally.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease, an infection caused by bacteria that attacks your reproductive system
- Insufficiency of premature ovaries if you are below 40. It can result from abnormalities of the chromosomes, cancer treatment through radiation or chemotherapy, or genetically acquired cancer.
However, there are additional causes for abnormal menstruation. These causes include:
- Cancer of the cervix or ovaries
- Use of medications such as steroids
- Pregnancy complications such as ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage
Irregular Periods Diagnosis
It is important to keep records of your menstrual cycle, especially if it is changing. Your record should include the type of flow you are experiencing and if large clots of blood are passed. Pain and cramping, as well as bleeding in between your cycle, should be noted. A physical examination inclusive of a pelvic exam will be conducted by your doctor and occasionally a pap test.
Other tests that the doctor might request include:
- To check for anemia, an examination of the blood
- To rule out fibroids, a pelvic ultrasound test
- A biopsy of the endometrial test
Ways of Decreasing Irregular Periods
To ensure you avoid irregular periods, the below strategies can be applied:
- Healthy lifestyle maintenance through regular exercises and healthy eating habits
- Avoid overstaying with sanitary towels past the recommended time
- Follow contraceptives instructions
- Rest enough
- Avoid stress by practicing relaxing techniques
- Avoid intense workout routines
- Regularly visit your doctor for checkups
Irregular Period Treatment
Irregular period treatment options depend on the cause. Some of the treatment options include:
- Menstrual cycle regulation
- Pain control by use of medications
- Through medical or surgical procedures
Talk to an Irregular Periods Specialists Today
A lot of women treat irregular periods as a simple issue even though it could be as a result of underlying medical conditions. Protect your reproductive health by booking a consultation with a specialist today!