Ignoring irregular periods can be dangerous, understand the reasons from experts!

Most women in the reproductive age group have a normal menstrual cycle of 24 to 38 days and it lasts for 8 days or less. During this time, about 35 ml (20 to 80 ml) of bleeding occurs. The difference between the shortest and longest menstrual cycle is 7 to 9 days. But 14% to 25% of women have irregular cycles, that is, their menstrual cycle is either of short duration or lasts a little longer than normal. It is also possible that their bleeding is more or less than normal, or it also happens that sometimes they have to bear abdominal cramps (stomach cramps and sharp pain). 

Dr. Neha Gupta, Senior Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fortis Hospital, Noida, explains that the anovulatory cycle usually lasts for 2 years after the onset of periods (monarchy) and is seen in women approaching menopause. There can be many reasons behind irregular periods: 

* These are non-cancerous tumors that form from the muscles of the uterus. They can be one or more and small or large. Often, submucous fibroids or large intramural fibroids are the cause of excessive bleeding and irregular menstrual cycles.

* Endometrial polyp

* Hormonal abnormalities: thyroid or prolactin hormone 

* Irregular periods and less frequent ovulation due to insulin resistance can also lead to a delay in the cycle and more bleeding during periods.

* Low-calorie (starvation) or high-calorie intake can also affect periods.

* Extremely low or excessive weight can also be a reason. 

* This can also happen due to the intake of antidepressant medicines, steroid hormones, i-pills, irregular intake of contraceptive pills, and blood thinners.

* Sometimes the body can temporarily stop periods due to serious illnesses and recovery from illness.

* Infections: Tuberculosis (TB), pelvic inflammatory disease

* Miscarriage: Sometimes due to damage to the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium) or infection after a miscarriage.

* Any growth on the cervix can cause bleeding after periods of sexual intercourse. Uterine cancer can cause the inner wall of the uterus or the endometrium layer to thicken and cause abnormal bleeding.

If a young woman has complained of irregular menstruation for the first time, then pregnancy should be avoided at all costs. After this, prepare a menstrual calendar. If there are at least 3 cycles of abnormal bleeding or periods that affect the normal routine, then definitely consult a gynecologist. In most cases, you will be advised to get a blood test and ultrasound done. In some cases, a Pap smear test is also advised.

Most women are advised to take birth control pills for some time and doing so can cure their problem to a great extent. But in case of any abnormality in the uterus, diagnostic/operative hysterectomy may be recommended for confirmation and treatment. In some women, myomectomy may be required so that fertility is not affected. Women who have a complete family or in whom malignancy is confirmed are advised to manage the disease through surgery.