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

Irregular periods can be frustrating, confusing and even alarming for many women. While an occasional missed or delayed cycle may not be cause for concern, frequent disruptions in the menstrual pattern could be your body’s way of signalling deeper hormonal or health-related issues. Menstrual irregularities, whether it’s longer gaps between cycles, unusually heavy bleeding, or skipped periods, are often linked to underlying conditions that require medical attention and lifestyle adjustments.

From common hormonal imbalances like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and thyroid disorders to lifestyle factors such as stress, extreme weight changes and over-exercising, a variety of triggers can disrupt the natural rhythm of your menstrual cycle. In some cases, more serious conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids or even chronic illnesses could be responsible. In conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr. Shweta Mendiratta, Clinical Associate Director-Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Marengo Asia Hospital, Faridabad, shares the most common hormonal and health-related causes of irregular periods that every woman should know.

Hormonal Causes Of Irregular Periods

The menstrual cycle is also regulated by hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. Irregular menses can occur as a result of endocrine imbalance. Dr. Shweta Mendiratta states, “The most common endocrine cause is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), an endocrine disease associated with hyperandrogenism, an inclination to ovulate in an irregular manner, and cysts of the ovary.”

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She adds, “Thyroid disease, hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, also interfere with menstrual cycles by altering metabolism and hormone release.” Moreover, perimenopause, during which a woman is transitioning into menopause, is most likely to produce hormonal shifts and, as a result, irregular or absent periods.

Stress, weight fluctuations, intense exercise and eating disorders also impact hormone levels and interfere with ovulation, leading to irregular periods.

Hormonal And Health Causes Of Irregular Periods (Image Credits: Canva)

Health Conditions Of Irregular Periods

Aside from hormonal etiology, there are also other medical conditions responsible for the etiology of abnormal menstruation. Dr. Shweta Mendiratta mentions, “Endometriosis or the growth of endometrial lining-like tissue outside of the uterine cavity may result in heavy or abnormal menstruation.” Fibroids are also benign uterine growths that disrupt the uniformity and continuity of menstruation.

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Chronic disease, like diabetes or celiac disease, will have an indirect impact on menstrual health by virtue of its overall impact on the body's systems and hormonal function. Relying upon extremely uncommon instances, tumours or malfunction of the pituitary gland may also impact the menstrual cycle by interfering with the secretion of reproductive hormones.

When To Seek Medical Help

Whereas regular irregularity is to be anticipated, repeated or chronic irregular cycles need to be assessed by a health care professional. Workups involve blood work, pelvic exam, or radiologic studies utilised in diagnosing the etiology. Early diagnosis and proper control restore hormonal balance, govern the symptoms and avoid complications like infertility or anaemia.