Constant Irregular Periods
Constant Irregular Periods

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Constant Irregular Periods

Constant Irregular Periods

Quick Fact:
It can take up to two years for periods to settle into a regular cycle. After puberty, most women develop a regular menstrual cycle with around the same length of time between periods.

Constant irregular periods are one of the earliest signals that a woman is either pregnant or experiencing the onset of menopause. This is because constant irregular periods are linked to ovulation, which gradually stops upon the decline of the body´s estrogen and progesterone levels. Though the nature of what constitutes an irregular period is unique to the individual woman, many women experience these up to ten years before they stop completely.

For more information on constant irregular periods and how best to handle them read over the fact page below.

What do we mean by constant irregular periods?

irregular periods daysA woman´s menstruation, or periods, is the monthly shedding of the lining of the womb. As such periods are part of the female reproductive cycle. They start during puberty (between the ages of 10 and 16) and continue until the menopause (45 to 55). The average menstrual cycle lasts 28 days, but this can vary healthily between 24 and 35 days. Menstrual bleeding normally lasts between two and seven days, with the average time being five days.

The most common result of a hormone imbalance is loss of ovulation. If this occurs over a long period of time, a condition called endometrial hyperplasia can occur. Endometrial hyperplasia is the result of constant estrogen bombardment of the endometrium (the lining of the uterus shed every month with your period). Untreated, endometrial hyperplasia (when the lining of the uterus becomes too thick) can sometimes turn into cancer.

However, some women have an irregular menstrual cycle where the time between periods, the amount of blood lost and the number of days bleeding lasts all vary widely. By constant irregular periods we mean changes to a woman´s ordinary menstrual cycle over several consecutive months.

What are the causes of constant irregular periods?

irregular periods exerciseReasons for irregular periods can be both normal and abnormal. Obviously, the most normal reason for irregular periods is pregnancy. Hormone imbalance (as experienced through menopause) is also a common reason. Constant irregular periods can also occur as a result of rapid weight loss or gain, strenuous exercise, stress, illness, or certain medications.

What is the best way to cope with irregular periods for years?

Whilst most irregular periods return to regularity in a relatively short time (months), if you are suffering constant irregular periods you should consult with your medical professional in order to ensure that there are no underlying medical conditions.

Fact:
Irregular periods are common during puberty or nearing menopause. Treatment during these times is usually not necessary.

In addition, constant irregular periods as a result of the onset of menopause can be improved by following a healthy diet and exercise regime, along with the alternative medicine treatments. Some natural remedies directly target the issue of hormonal imbalance associated with menopause and can therefore be helpful

Click here for more information about treatments for constant irregular periods.

Other Related Articles:
Menstrual Disorders
Menstrual Disorder and Acupuncture
Menstrual Cycle Problems and Regulation
Long Menstrual Cycles
Irregular periods for years

Sources:
  • Hutchinson, Susan M.D. "The Stages of a Woman's Life: Menstruation, Pregnancy, Nursing, Perimenopause, Menopause." November 2007.
  • Love, Susan M.D. Menopause and Hormone Book. New York: Three Rivers Press, 2003.
  • BMJ Group. "Menopause: What is it?" Patient Leaflet. 2007.