Irregular periods (cycles shorter than 21 or longer than 35 days)
Overview
Irregular periods are menstrual cycles that occur more frequently than every 21 days or less frequently than every 35 days, deviating from the typical 28-day cycle. This condition involves unpredictable timing between menstrual periods, making it difficult to predict when the next period will occur.
Common Causes
Irregular periods can be caused by hormonal fluctuations during puberty, perimenopause, or after childbirth and breastfeeding. Stress, significant weight changes, excessive exercise, and certain medications can also disrupt your natural cycle. Medical conditions like thyroid disorders, PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), and diabetes may affect hormone levels and menstrual regularity. Birth control methods, including hormonal contraceptives and IUDs, commonly alter cycle patterns as well.
Severity Levels
Mild: Your periods come a few days early or late occasionally, but you can still generally predict when they'll arrive. The irregularity doesn't significantly impact your daily planning or activities.
Moderate: Your cycle timing varies noticeably from month to month, making it challenging to predict your next period. You may need to track your cycle more carefully and always be prepared with menstrual products.
Severe: Your periods are completely unpredictable with no clear pattern, occurring very frequently or with very long gaps between cycles. This unpredictability significantly affects your ability to plan activities and may cause anxiety about when bleeding will occur.
Medical Attention
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience sudden changes in your previously regular cycle, or if irregular timing persists for more than three consecutive cycles. Seek medical attention if you have severe pain, extremely heavy bleeding, or if you're trying to conceive and having difficulty tracking ovulation. It's also important to consult a doctor if you're under 16 and haven't established a regular pattern, or if you're over 45 and experiencing significant changes that could indicate perimenopause.
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