Irregular periods in young females 18-35 years

It is essential to know your menstrual cycle length. To find out your period length, start counting from the first day when your period begins till the first day of your next period. In normal circumstances, a menstrual cycle is of 28 days. However, there are many normal ranges when discussing the menstrual cycle. So, it's nothing to worry about if your period regularly lasts a few days longer or shorter. An irregular period is when your cycle often comes and goes at unexpected times. It is a signal that something about your health is not quite right. For example, irregular periods can be an early sign of an infertility problem.

Regular periods have the same length month after month for a healthy female. Your menstrual cycle may be irregular, for example, if it shifts from 28 days to 31 days or to 25 days. It might be shorter or longer than what's typical. You may have no bleeding or excessive bleeding. Often, the term "irregular" may refer to a change in what's normal for you.

Signs of an irregular period

Periods are irregular when they occur less than 21 days or more than 35 days apart.
Consequently, missing three or more periods indicates an irregular period.
Menstrual flow that is much heavier or lighter than usual
Periods that last longer than seven days
Periods accompanied by pain, cramping, nausea, or vomiting
When bleeding happens in between periods, after menopause, or following intercourse

Causes of irregular period

There are many common reasons for an irregular period cycle, listed below -

During puberty, the cycle can be irregular for the first 12-18 months
When someone loses extreme weight or gains excessive weight
If someone is exercising heavily
If someone is going through a very stressful phase in life
In some people, contraceptive pills or intrauterine systems can cause an irregular menstrual cycle
If someone is pregnant (one should test this possibility with pregnancy test kits to verify this and should consult the doctor)
When someone is entering into their menopause, usually between 45-55 years of age
Women with PCOS, Thyroid, Fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, Endometriosis, etc.

How to diagnose irregular periods?

One should track their cycle length, last period, usual flow during menstruation, etc. If you notice any irregularity, inform your gynecologist and discuss all of this, including your medical history. The doctor might suggest some tests to diagnose the root cause, which may include - pelvic ultrasound to check fibroids, sometimes a PAP test, a blood test to rule out if the patient is suffering from Anemia, vaginal cultures, etc.

How is an irregular period treated?

Treatment of an irregular period largely depends on identifying the root cause. The doctor can recommend inserting a hormone-releasing intrauterine device or sometimes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications when it is due to heavy bleeding. If it is due to absent periods, or irregular periods, then the doctor may recommend oral contraceptives or cyclic progestins. Treating painful periods may include using a heating pad to the abdomen and injecting hormone therapy or anti-inflammatory medicines. When medical management is ineffective, the gynecologist can recommend surgical removal of fibroids, blocking blood flow to the uterus, hysterectomy, etc., depending on the patient's condition.

Why choose Queens Gynecology

Queen's Gynaecology has a dedicated team of trustworthy and non-judgemental qualified gynecologists who can assist you in treating irregular periods. You can consult with us online / in the hospital by connecting with us at 9654999888.