Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Most women will experience certain changes or fluctuations in their cycles from time to time during their reproductive years. However, if the cycles begin to drastically altar, it’s time to pay attention and examine what may be abnormal and what it is we can do to assuage the situation.

Symptoms of Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Reasons for irregular menstrual cycles can vary from woman to woman and can be the result of many variables. Some women suffer irregular periods from the onset of their menses while others develop problematic menstruation cycles along the way. Let’s examine come symptoms to watch for irregular menstrual cycles:

• Bleeding for more than the normal amount of time, especially over 7 days
• Heavy bleeding requiring a tampon or sanitary napkin change every 2 to 3 hours
• Menstrual cycle is less than 28 days or more than 35 days apart
• Bleeding or spotting between periods
• Excessive and chronic pain during menstruation and/or in between periods
• Bleeding after having gone through menopause

Causes of Irregular Menstrual Cycles

The overall term for irregular menstrual cycles falls under the umbrella of Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding, which is a universal nomenclature for reproductive hormonal imbalance. Other causes of irregular, abnormal or heavy bleeding are:

• Uterine fibroids, which are benign tumors that populate the uterus.
• Polyps that are also benign growths that attach to the walls of the uterus.
• Adenomyosis, which is a thickening of the uterine wall that transpires when endometrial tissue migrates into the outer muscular walls of the uterus.
• Certain medical conditions may exacerbate irregular menstruation cycles are, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, obesity, anorexia and alcoholism.
• Certain medications, which may serve as blood thinners.
• Infections in the uterus.
• Over-exercise, which can manifest into amenorrhea, a term used for the complete cessation of menses.
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome, which is a common female endocrine disorder.
• Stress, a powerful underlying constituent that lends greatly to menstruation dysfunction.

Treatment options for Irregular Menstrual Cycles

The female reproductive system is a sensitive entity that responds to the exposure to the environment accordingly. Irregularities may be adjusted and improved with the following, important and proven lifestyle changes:

• Modifications In Diet - eliminating caffeine and restricting alcohol will help in alleviating symptoms. Cutting down on fats and sugars will also aid in better metabolism and help address over-weight issues. For those that are underweight, a gradual increase in healthy calories can slowly work to restore a healthy and more normal menses.

For example, fresh foods such as dark, leafy greens, egg yolks and legumes are high in iron content and will assist with fatigue during long, heavy periods. Foods rich in calcium, such as milk, salmon, soybeans and enriched cereals and breads are encouraged as dietary additions to aid toward better bone health and help with the symptoms of erratic periods.

• Monitoring Exercise - under-exercise and over-exercise can both have adverse effects on a normal menstrual cycle. It’s important to consult with a physical trainer to find the right exercise program for you. Moderation in a daily brisk walk, regular yoga and some light weight lifting may be the key.

• Alternative Methods and Therapies - such as daily meditation to calm any inner turmoil. Explore alternative techniques such as the ancient Eastern practice of acupuncture has proven to reduce menstrual pain and stress as well as elevate the mood. Aromatherapy is another natural alternative approach to reduce tension and raise mood levels.

• Positive Attitude - keep a daily journal to track thought and mood patterns. This may help recognize factors that help to cope with irregular menses. Find more irregular menstrual cycles treatment options.