Irregular Periods: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of irregular periods?

Irregular periods, also known as oligomenorrhea or polymenorrhea, can manifest in different ways, depending on the underlying cause. Here are some common symptoms of irregular periods:

1. Unpredictable bleeding patterns: The most common symptom of irregular periods is unpredictable and irregular bleeding patterns, which can include:
   • Heavy or light bleeding
   • Short or long intervals between periods
   • Spotting or light bleeding between periods
   • Absence of periods (amenorrhea)
2. Infrequent or prolonged periods: Women with irregular periods may experience:
   • Infrequent periods (fewer than 4-6 periods per year)
   • Prolonged periods (lasting more than 7-10 days)
3. Abnormal uterine bleeding: Irregular periods can cause abnormal uterine bleeding, including:
   • Heavy bleeding
   • Clotting
   • Spotting or light bleeding between periods
4. Pelvic pain or cramping: Some women with irregular periods may experience pelvic pain or cramping due to:
   • Uterine fibroids
   • Endometriosis
   • Adenomyosis
5. Other symptoms: Other symptoms that may be associated with irregular periods include:
   • Mood swings
   • Fatigue
   • Headaches
   • Breast tenderness
   • Nausea and vomiting

Types of irregular periods:

1. Oligomenorrhea: Infrequent periods (fewer than 4-6 periods per year)
2. Polymenorrhea: Frequent periods (more than 6-8 periods per year)
3. Amenorrhea: Absence of periods (not having a period for an extended period)
4. Dysmenorrhea: Painful periods

Causes of irregular periods:

1. Hormonal imbalances
2. Thyroid disorders
3. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
4. Endometriosis
5. Adenomyosis
6. Uterine fibroids
7. Polyps
8. Cervical stenosis
9. Hysterectomy
10. Pregnancy and childbirth

If you’re experiencing irregular periods, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan to regulate your menstrual cycle and alleviate symptoms.