Irregular Periods: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Do you experience periods with unpredictable changes in timing, flow, or duration, leaving you wondering about the cause? While occasional irregularities are common and not always a cause for concern, persistent or significant changes could indicate an underlying issue that requires medical attention. In this article, we will explore the causes, signs, and treatment options for irregular menstrual cycles, to help you better understand and manage your reproductive health.

Irregular menstrual periods can result from a variety of factors, ranging from lifestyle factors to underlying medical conditions:

1. Natural and Lifestyle Factors

• Puberty and Menopause: Puberty and perimenopause (the transition to menopause) can cause irregular cycles as the body adjusts to shifting hormone levels.
• Stress: High stress levels affect the brain’s ability to regulate reproductive hormones, delaying or stopping ovulation.
• Sudden Weight Changes: Rapid weight gain or loss disrupts oestrogen levels, interfering with the hormonal balance needed for regular periods.
• Excessive Exercise: Intense physical activity can strain the body, diverting energy and resources away from hormone production and ovulation.
• Restrictive Dieting: Insufficient calorie intake or key nutrient deficiencies can hinder hormone production.

2. Medical Conditions

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS can disrupt ovulation due to excess androgen levels, leading to infrequent or absent periods.
• Thyroid Disorders: Both overactive (hyperthyroidism) and underactive (hypothyroidism) thyroid glands can interfere with hormone production.
• Endometriosis: This condition causes tissue similar to the uterine lining to grow outside the uterus, where it can bleed during the menstrual cycle, leading to painful and irregular periods.
• Endometrial Polyps: These are growths that arise from the inner lining of the uterus and can cause bleeding at different times of the menstrual cycle.

4. Pregnancy

Missing a period is often one of the earliest signs of pregnancy, as ovulation and menstruation typically stop during this time. However, some women may experience light spotting or irregular bleeding in early pregnancy, which can occur due to implantation (when the fertilised egg attaches to the uterine lining) or hormonal changes as the body adjusts to pregnancy.

Occasional irregularities are usually not a cause for concern. However, you should consult a doctor if you experience:

• Persistent irregular cycles lasting several months, with no apparent cause.
• Sudden and unexplained changes in your menstrual pattern.
• Very heavy bleeding or the passing of large blood clots, or prolonged periods.
• Severe pain or cramping during menstruation that disrupts daily activities.
• Complete absence of periods for three months or more (amenorrhoea).

Managing irregular menses often involves addressing the underlying cause, with treatment options typically involving a combination of approaches. Your doctor will recommend the most suitable course of action based on the severity of the condition, your overall health, and your reproductive goals.

Approach	Details
Lifestyle Adjustment	Adopting healthier habits, such as managing stress through relaxation techniques, achieving a healthy weight, and following a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, can help restore hormonal balance.
Medications	Medications may be used to regulate hormones or address specific conditions. Hormonal therapies, such as progestin-only pills, can stabilise menstrual cycles. Condition-specific treatments, like metformin for PCOS or levothyroxine for thyroid disorders, target the root cause to promote cycle regularity.
Surgical Interventions	In cases where structural abnormalities like fibroids or endometriosis cause irregular periods, surgical options may be recommended. Procedures such as myomectomy to remove fibroids or laparoscopy to treat endometriosis help restore uterine function and regulate menstrual cycles by eliminating structural disruptions.

At ATA Medical, we provide consultations for irregular periods and offer treatment if required. Female doctors are also available based on your preference.

Test	Price*
Consultation	From $38.15
Estradiol / Estrogen (E2)	$32.70
Progesterone	$32.70
Free T3 (FT3)	$43.60
Free T4 (FT4)	$32.70
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)	$32.70
Hormone & Fertility Profile (HOR3) Testosterone, Estrogen (E2), Free T4, Thyroid Stimulating Hormone, Follicle Stimulating Hormone, Luteinising Hormone, Prolactin	$130.90
Ultrasound Pelvis	$207.10

*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

Irregular periods are common among women and can often be a source of concern and uncertainty. While occasional irregularities may not always indicate an underlying health issue, understanding their potential causes and knowing when to seek care can help to maintain your menstrual health. If you are experiencing persistent or sudden changes in your menstrual cycle, consider scheduling an appointment with a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment.

At ATA Medical, we strive to make a meaningful impact on every patient's health. With over 120,000 patients served, we are dedicated to fostering trust and enhancing well-being across our community.