The menstrual cycle, one of the most important indicators of women's health, is a natural process that ensures the regular functioning of the reproductive system. This process, which continues from puberty to menopause, is of great importance in terms of hormonal balance, fertility and general health.
However, due to some health problems, the menstrual cycle can be disrupted and menstrual irregularity can occur. Menstrual irregularity can be a symptom of many diseases, and sometimes it can only be caused by the stress of daily life or environmental factors.
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What is Menstruation?
Menstruation is the process of expelling tissues from the body with blood as a result of the regular renewal of the inner layer of the uterus every month. This cycle is part of the preparation process for pregnancy and repeats on average between 21 and 35 days.
If fertilization does not occur, the thickened uterine wall begins to thin and is expelled from the body with menstrual bleeding. However, due to hormonal imbalances, stress and some health problems, this order can be disrupted and menstrual irregularity can occur.
What is Menstrual Irregularity?
The menstrual cycle normally occurs at regular intervals. However, in some cases, bleeding can last longer or shorter than normal. The time between two menstrual periods can vary. The amount of bleeding can increase or decrease. The menstrual cycle can stop completely.
Such changes are called menstrual irregularity and can be a symptom of hormonal disorders, gynecological diseases or metabolic disorders.
What Causes Irregular Menstrual Periods?
Irregular menstrual periods can be caused by many different factors. The most common causes are:
- Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels can directly affect the menstrual cycle.
- Intense stress, sadness, and anxiety can disrupt menstrual periods.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can affect ovulation and cause irregular menstrual periods.
- Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are factors that directly affect the menstrual cycle.
- Myomas, polyps, and ovarian cysts can cause irregular menstrual periods.
- Sudden changes in body weight can disrupt the menstrual cycle by affecting hormones.
- Menstrual cycles can become irregular in women who do excessive physical activity.
- Irregularities seen after the age of 40 may indicate that menopause has begun.
What are the symptoms of menstrual irregularity?
What are the Symptoms of Menstrual Irregularity?
- Irregular menstrual bleeding
- Menstrual periods lasting less than 2 days or more than 7 days
- Bleeding being too little or too much
- Intense groin and abdominal pain before or during menstruation
- Frequent nausea and dizziness
- Spotting when not menstruating
- Extreme fatigue and restlessness
If these symptoms continue for a long time, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist.
What Diseases Can Irregular Menstrual Periods Be a Sign of?
Irregular menstrual periods can sometimes be a temporary condition, but they can also be a sign of some serious health problems.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): It can prevent ovulation and cause irregular menstrual bleeding.
- Endometriosis (Chocolate Cyst): It can cause irregular menstrual cycles with severe pain.
- Uterine Myomas and Polyps: It can increase the amount of bleeding and cause irregularity.
- Thyroid Diseases: Under or overactivity of the thyroid gland can cause irregular menstrual periods.
- Uterine and Ovarian Cancers: Irregular menstrual bleeding that continues for a long time can be a sign of serious diseases.
Therefore, it is recommended to have a gynecological examination in cases of irregular menstrual periods that last longer than 3 months.
Can Menstrual Irregularity Be Treated?
Yes, menstrual irregularity can be treated. However, the root cause of this condition must first be determined. The uterus and ovaries are examined with gynecological examination and imaging techniques (ultrasound, MRI). Estrogen, progesterone and thyroid hormone levels are evaluated by performing hormone tests. Anemia, infection and metabolic diseases are checked with blood tests. As a result of these examinations, a personalized treatment plan is created.
How is Menstrual Irregularity Treated?
The treatment method varies depending on the cause of menstrual irregularity:
- Hormone Therapy: If menstrual irregularity is caused by hormonal disorders, hormone balancing drugs may be prescribed.
- Birth Control Pills: In some cases, they can be used to regulate the menstrual cycle.
- Lifestyle Changes: A balanced diet, regular sleep and stress management can positively affect menstrual regularity.
- Surgical Intervention: If there are myomas, polyps or cysts, these masses can be removed with surgical operations.
- Treatment of the Underlying Disease: If conditions such as thyroid diseases and insulin resistance are detected, special treatments are applied for them.
Since every woman's body works differently, menstrual irregularity treatment should be planned individually.
