Irregular periods can be a frustrating experience for many women, but they are a common issue that can be managed with proper medical care.

At MGM Healthcare, experienced gynaecologists offer comprehensive evaluations and treatments to help women understand the underlying causes of irregular menstrual cycles.

Whether it’s a minor hormonal imbalance or a more significant health issue, the team at MGM Healthcare provides individualised care tailored to each patient's needs.

Are you suffering from irregular periods and want to know how to deal with it?

In this blog, Karetrip will explore the causes of irregular periods, when to see a doctor, and the types of treatments available at MGM Healthcare.

Understanding Irregular Periods

A regular menstrual cycle is typically 28 days long, but it can range from 21 to 35 days in healthy women. Periods are considered irregular if the cycle length frequently changes or if periods are missed for several months. This can manifest in several ways

• Polymenorrhea: Frequent periods occurring less than 21 days apart.

• Oligomenorrhea: Infrequent periods with cycles lasting more than 35 days.

• Amenorrhea: Absence of periods for three months or longer.

• Menorrhagia: Heavy periods with excessive bleeding.

Irregular periods can have a wide range of causes, from lifestyle factors to underlying medical conditions.

Common Causes of Irregular Periods

There are several potential reasons for irregular periods. Some are related to hormonal imbalances, while others may be due to more serious health conditions. Here are some of the most common causes

• Stress: High levels of stress can disrupt the balance of hormones in the body, affecting the menstrual cycle.

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is one of the most common causes of irregular periods and is associated with hormonal imbalances and ovarian cysts.

• Thyroid Disorders: An overactive or underactive thyroid can lead to irregular periods by affecting hormone levels.

• Weight Fluctuations: Rapid weight loss or gain can disrupt menstrual cycles by affecting the production of oestrogen.

• Exercise: Excessive physical activity, particularly in athletes, can cause irregular or absent periods.

• Perimenopause: As women approach menopause, their periods may become irregular due to changes in hormone levels.

• Medications: Certain medications, including birth control pills and blood thinners, can affect menstrual regularity.

• Uterine Fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus, fibroids can cause heavy bleeding and irregular periods.

• Eating Disorders: Conditions such as anorexia or bulimia can cause the body to stop menstruating.

• Pregnancy: Missed periods are often the first sign of pregnancy, but spotting or irregular bleeding can also occur in early pregnancy.

When Should You See a Gynecologist?

While occasional irregular periods can be normal, persistent irregularities warrant a consultation with a gynaecologist. MGM Healthcare's team of specialists is equipped to handle a wide range of menstrual disorders. You should seek medical attention if

• Your periods are consistently irregular.

• You miss three or more periods in a row.

• You experience extremely heavy bleeding or pass large clots.

• Your periods are accompanied by severe pain or discomfort.

• You notice unusual symptoms such as excessive hair growth, unexplained weight changes, or skin issues (which could be related to conditions like PCOS).

By consulting a gynaecologist, you can identify the root cause of your irregular periods and receive the appropriate treatment.

Diagnosis and Treatment at MGM Healthcare

At MGM Healthcare, the gynaecologists follow a structured approach to diagnose the cause of irregular periods. This often includes

• Medical History Review: The doctor will ask questions about your menstrual history, lifestyle, and any symptoms you may be experiencing.

• Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination, including a pelvic exam, helps identify any abnormalities.

• Blood Tests: These tests check hormone levels, including thyroid function and reproductive hormones.

• Ultrasound: Imaging tests like ultrasounds help detect issues like ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, or polyps.

• Endometrial Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy of the uterine lining may be recommended to rule out cancer or other conditions.

Once the cause of irregular periods is identified, the treatment plan is personalised based on the diagnosis. MGM Healthcare offers various treatments, including:

Hormonal Therapy

For many women with hormonal imbalances, birth control pills or hormonal IUDs are prescribed to regulate the menstrual cycle. These medications can help manage symptoms such as heavy bleeding or erratic cycles.

Lifestyle Changes

For those whose irregular periods are caused by stress, weight fluctuations, or excessive exercise, lifestyle changes may be recommended. This could involve stress management techniques, changes in diet, or modifying exercise routines.

Medications for Underlying Conditions

If a thyroid disorder, PCOS, or another health condition is identified, medications may be prescribed to manage the condition. For example, thyroid medication can help regulate the thyroid gland, while metformin may be prescribed for PCOS.

Surgical Options

In cases of uterine fibroids or polyps causing irregular periods, surgical options such as a hysteroscopy or myomectomy may be recommended to remove these growths and restore normal menstruation.

Fertility Treatments

For women trying to conceive, irregular periods can pose challenges. MGM Healthcare offers fertility treatments, such as ovulation induction, to help regulate cycles and improve the chances of pregnancy.

Preventing Irregular Periods

While some causes of irregular periods are beyond a woman's control, certain lifestyle habits can help maintain a regular cycle:

• Maintain a healthy weight by eating a balanced diet.

• Engage in regular, moderate exercise.

• Manage stress through relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.

• Get regular check-ups with a gynaecologist to monitor reproductive health.

• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Irregular periods can be a sign of various underlying health issues, but they are manageable with proper medical care. MGM Healthcare’s expert gynaecologists are well-equipped to help women understand their menstrual cycles, diagnose any problems, and provide the necessary treatment.

Whether the issue is as simple as stress or as complex as PCOS or fibroids, getting the right care can make all the difference in restoring normal menstrual function.

The information provided represents the views and opinions of Karetrip. It is crucial to conduct your own independent research before making any decisions regarding your healthcare journey.