Each body is different, and it functions differently, so do periods. Some women get periods at a fixed time, while others get unexpected or missed periods. An average healthy cycle for every woman to get periods is 21 to 35 days. Normal periods last for 2 to 8 days.
Missed periods don’t usually mean that you’re pregnant; they are also caused due to medical reasons or hormone imbalances.
Irregular periods are when a female misses her periods frequently, and her expected dates keep changing. Blood loss becomes more or less than usual. It lasts for a longer or shorter while than the standard period. If you face any of these issues, it is advised to get yourself checked by a doctor to avoid any obstacles.
Estrogen and progesterone are hormones that play a significant part in periods. When there is an imbalance of these hormones in the body, they cause disturbance in your period pattern. It is common for young girls facing puberty and women going towards menopause to have irregular periods because their body is in transition.
Other than hormone imbalance, let’s check out the other common reasons for late and irregular periods:
Stress can be a significant cause; it takes a toll on the daily routine activities and harms the hypothalamus, a part of the brain accountable for controlling periods. Stress causes various diseases, weight loss, or gain, which adds to the irregular cycle. Try releasing your stress through different activities or talking therapy to help you get back on a healthy period cycle.
If your body weight is lower than your normal expected range (BMI), it can create ovulation problems. Anorexia nervosa or bulimia are eating disorders that can affect your periods. Try healthily gaining weight and getting treatment for your eating disorders; it would correct your irregular cycle.
Extreme exercises, which include marathons, can cause irregular cycles.
Bodyweight counts a lot when it comes to periods. Just like being underweight can cause irregular periods, so can being overweight. Overweight and obesity cause hormonal changes, which can be treated with an advised exercise and a diet plan by your doctor.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a disease that increases the production of male hormone androgen and forms cysts. These cysts stop ovulation or make it irregular. Insulin levels also get imbalanced and cause issues. Consult with your doctor about PCOS and start your treatment to have a regular period cycle.
If you take birth control on and off, it can make your period cycle irregular for up to six months after you stop the pill. Birth controls contain hormones that suppress your ovaries from discharging eggs. Injected or implanted birth controls can also block your periods.
Thyroid disease, diabetes, and celiac disease can also disturb your period cycle. The blood sugar changes and no absorption of healthy nutrients can cause irregular periods.
Did you know these were the reasons why your period could be late or missed? If you don’t have any of these issues, you might want to get a pregnancy test with your doctor.
Until Next Time,
Team Doctor ASKY!