The average length of a woman’s menstrual cycle is 28 days.
However, this period may vary between 21 to 35 days.
An irregular menstrual cycle is where the length of the cycle is outside the range of 21 to 35 days.
Most common causes for irregular periods include the following.
Early pregnancy.
Pregnancy causes absent menstruation.
When the ovum is fertilized with a sperm, a woman’s ovaries start to secrete high amounts of progesterone, which prevents the uterine endometrium from shedding, causing absent menstruation.
Hormonal birth control pills and intrauterine devices.
Both contraceptives contain hormones, which interfere with the physiological hormone secretion in the female, causing irregular periods.
Breastfeeding.
During the period of breastfeeding, the hormone prolactin level is high.
Prolactin is responsible for milk secretion, and at the same time, it suppresses the secretion of reproductive hormones, resulting in very light periods or no periods at all.
Perimenopause.
Perimenopause is the transition phase before a woman enters menopause.
Fluctuating levels of estrogen during this time can lead to menstrual irregularities.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Irregular periods are the most common sign of polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Other symptoms and signs of polycystic ovarian syndrome include, increased body hair, especially in the face.
Weight gain.
And acne.
Thyroid disease.
Both hyper and hypothyroidism can cause irregular periods.
Hypothyroidism can cause longer and heavier periods, whereas hyperthyroidism can cause shorter and lighter periods.
Uterine fibroids.
Fibroids are muscular tumors that develop in the wall of the uterus.
Most fibroids are non-cancerous and may range in their size.
Fibroids are hormone responsive and are one of the most common causes of heavy menstrual bleeding.
Endometriosis.
Endometriosis is a condition where the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tubes.
It causes very painful menstrual cramps, associated with heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, and bleeding between periods.
Obesity.
Strenuous exercise.
Excessive exercising interferes with the hormones responsible for menstruation.
Female athletes and women who participate in intensive training and physical activities, such as ballet dancers, often develop menstrual irregularities.
Stress.
Stress can interfere with the women's menstrual cycle by temporarily interfering with the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland, which secrete hormones responsible for menstruation, including GnRH, FSH, and LH hormones.
Certain medications.
Several classes of medications, including thyroid medications, epilepsy drugs, and steroids can interfere with the physiological hormone secretion responsible for menstruation, leading to menstrual irregularities.
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