How does my lifestyle cause my irregular period?

The definition of an irregular period is relative, not just compared to what is considered a “regular period,” but also to what is regular for each individual woman. That being said, only 10% of women operate on a 28-day perfect cycle, with three days of secreting around two-and-a-half tablespoons of blood. For most women, the realm of normal includes any cycle that is between 24 and 34 days in length with a four to seven day period of menstrual bleeding. Blood loss will still be between two and three tablespoons. The average woman will have between 11 and 13 periods each year. Because the menstrual cycle and period are controlled by hormones, irregular periods are often the result of misbehaving hormones. Hormone imbalance is often the result of the lifestyle choices a person makes. To learn how you may be causing your irregular period, continue reading down the page.

What are the signs of an irregular period?

As mentioned above, an irregular period is dependant on the individual woman. However, some common red flags include:

• Spotting between periods
• Bleeding after sex
• Heavy bleeding or passing blood clots, also known as flooding
• Bleeding for more than seven days, or producing five tablespoons of blood
• Bleeding after menopause

How does my diet affect my irregular period?

Most things that are ingested by the body have potential to impact hormone balance. The main hormones that are involved with menstruation are estrogen and progesterone, though testosterone plays a small part. There are certain foods that promote and inhibit the production of these hormones. Other foods can be natural forms of these hormones and when they are ingested add to the amount the body already possessed. Because hormone balance is so precise, some women should or should not eat certain foods because of their natural balance. For instance, soy beans are an estrogenic food, and if a woman is suffering from estrogen dominance, she should not eat soy. Instead, she may want to eat yams, which promote progesterone. As always, if a woman is suffering from an irregular period from a suspected hormonal imbalance, she should consult a physician.

How does physical activity affect my irregular period?

Physical activity has been shown to be linked to hormonal balance. Hormones control the menstrual cycle, and if hormones are upset, you may experience an irregular period. Lack of activity can cause hormones to run wild, while too much exercise can have a similar affect. It is important to find a balance to maintain health.

To learn more about irregular periods

If you are experiencing an irregular period, you should consult your doctor to make certain a more serious health condition is not the cause. Lifestyle changes are among the least invasive methods for maintaining hormone balance and avoiding irregular periods. To continue reading about this and related topics, click this link.