Early Menstrual Cycles and Periods

A normal menstrual period lasts anywhere from 23 to 35 days but hardly anyone is normal. Early menstrual cycles are very common but can become disruptive, uncomfortable and can worsen with time if not treated. It’s can be difficult to live with early menstrual periods, and you don’t have to either.

What is an early menstrual period?

An early menstrual period is a menstrual cycle that happens before the minimum of a 23 day period from the end of the last period. You can keep a record of when your period ends and when the next one begins. Keep track of your periods for at least three months to get an accurate count.

Generally, there are three different types of early menstrual periods.

early-menstrual-period1 When the frequency of a period is 21 days or less it is called Polymenorrhea. The term Polymenorrhea is also used when a menstrual period begins right after another. There is no danger in this, but it can make getting pregnant difficult.

Short cycles consisting of three days or less or of menstrual periods consisting of more than 35 apart are called Oligomenorrhea. There isn´t any real danger with Oligomenorrhea but it can make getting pregnant difficult.

The complete absence of a menstrual cycle for more than 60 days is called Amenorrhea which usually occurs during pregnancy or breast feeding but also can take place at others times.

What causes early menstrual periods?

There are two basic causes for early menstrual periods: psychological and physical.

Psychological issues causing early menstrual periods is not common. Stress, weight loss and a number of other factors can cause an early menstrual cycle. Also once one early menstrual cycle has occurred it too can cause stress and therefore more early menstrual periods and can be very uncomfortable.

early-menstrual-period2 Physical causes such as an imbalance of estrogen and progesterone can cause early periods and disrupt the natural rhythm of your body.

Diet and exercise can also play a crucial in maintaining regular periods. It is important to do regular exercise and to eat healthy so your body and work how it is supposed to. A poor diet can put added stress on the body and sometimes lead to variation in estrogen levels.