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In the fast-paced world that we live in today, stress is almost inevitable. While it's normal to have stress every now and then, chronic or prolonged stress can impact your body in some unexpected ways including your menstrual cycle. A lot of women experience irregular periods, skipped cycles or heavier bleeding during especially stressful moments. Knowing the connection between stress and your reproductive system will help you better manage both.

In a conversation with The Daily Jagran English, Dr. Anjali Kumar, Founder - Maitree, Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology - CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram explained how stress impacts your menstrual cycle.

The Link Between Stress And Your Hormones

Your menstrual cycle is governed by an intricate balance of hormones, primarily estrogen, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian (HPO) axis regulates these hormones. When you're stressed, your brain stimulates the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis to release stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Higher levels of cortisol can interfere with normal HPO axis function and cause your menstrual cycle to change.

ALSO READ: What To Eat During Your Menstrual Cycle To Boost Energy And Balance Hormones? Expert Shares Insights

How Stress Affects Your Cycle?

1. Irregular Periods

Stress can cause ovulation to delay or accelerate. This results in your period arriving earlier or later than expected, making your cycle irregular.

2. Missed Periods (Amenorrhea)

Protracted stress can sometimes even quash ovulation entirely. Without ovulation, there's no period, a phenomenon called stress-induced amenorrhea.

3. Heavier or Lighter Flow

Hormonal imbalance due to stress can cause the uterine lining to shift, causing your flow to be heavier, lighter or briefer than normal.

4. Aching Periods (Dysmenorrhea)

Stress can exacerbate muscle tension and inflammation, making menstrual cramps worse.

5. Worsening of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Emotional stress can worsen PMS symptoms such as mood swings, irritability and fatigue.

ALSO READ: Irregular Periods? Doctor Explains Top Hormonal And Health Causes That Every Woman Should Know

Indications That Stress Is Impacting Your Cycle

1. Regularly early, late or missed periods

2. Visible changes in flow (very light or way too heavy)

3. Amplified PMS symptoms

4. Cycle length changes (less than 21 days or more than 35 days)

5. Increased menstrual pain

How To Manage Stress For A Healthier Cycle?

1. Embrace Relaxation Techniques - Practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises help reduce cortisol levels.

2. Remain Physically Active - Moderate exercise helps regulate hormones and reduces anxiety.

3. Maintain a Balanced Diet - Eating nutrient-rich foods supports hormone balance and overall health.

4. Prioritise Sleep - Aim for 7–9 hours of restful sleep each night, as poor sleep can worsen stress.

5. Seek Professional Support - Talking to a counselor, therapist or doctor can help if stress is overwhelming or persistent.