A normal menstrual cycle of a woman lasts 28 days, plus or minus seven days.
During a normal menstrual cycle or period, an egg is released from one of the ovaries during ovulation.
The egg is not fertilized by a sperm, then changing hormone levels signal the body to shed the blood and tissues that line the uterus. This bleeding typically lasts about five days and is repeated in a monthly cycle.
However, some women experience what is called abnormal uterine bleeding which is another term for irregular periods. Menstrual bleeding is considered irregular if:
Causes of Irregular Periods:
Diagnosis and Treatment
A missed or irregular period could be the first sign of a condition that needs medical attention. A gynecologist is the best specialist to determine the cause of your irregular periods and help in advising on a treatment course. The doctors may evaluate the below:
Depending on the conditions and medical tests, oral contraceptives may be prescribed to regulate the menstrual cycle.
Incase stress is causing irregular periods, then stress management techniques like meditation, yoga should be practiced.
Over-exercising and extreme diets should also be avoided as these can interfere with the menstrual cycle.
Conclusion
While a couple of irregular periods every year is usually nothing to worry about, if it is a persistent problem then a specialist doctor should be consulted to make sure there are no problems with ovulation or any other health conditions. In most cases, with proper diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to get the menstrual cycle back on track.
Special thanks to Dr. Sulbha Arora (MD DNB ) for the expert advice.