Some women get their periods like clockwork every month. Others have completely unpredictable and irregular cycles—and this may affect their fertility. Menstrual cycles generally range from 21 to 35 days, and anything outside of that timeframe is considered irregular. Varying cycle lengths are also cause for concern, especially if they change by more than a couple of days each month. For example, switching between a day cycle and a day means you have irregular periods.
Medical conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome PCOS or thyroid disease are the most common causes of irregular periods, according to Michele Hakakha, M.
Certain lifestyle factors—including stress level, weight, exercise, and diet—may also affect the menstrual cycle. And sometimes irregular periods have no known causes at all.
It's always important to get checked out by your doctor and run the appropriate tests. Ovulation occurs when the ovary releases a mature egg into the fallopian tube, where it survives for hours. A woman can become pregnant if this egg is fertilized with sperm.
Since sperm survives in the reproductive tract for five days, conception can occur by having unprotected sex on the day of ovulation or five days before it, says Rashmi Kudesia, M. If you have a regular cycle, ovulation generally occurs 14 days before your next period is due, says Dr. Research shows PCOS cases double miscarraiges and premature deliveries. Thyroid Issues can affect the frequency and timeliness of menstrual cycles.
Fibroids, diabetes, and endometriosis are other common reasons for irregular periods. Even sexually transmitted infections can cause irregular or absent periods.
Lifestyle is another cause of irregular periods. Excessive exercise and dieting can create irregular periods or stop them entirely. High-performance athletes often suffer from irregular periods.
Stress, weight gain, and weight loss have adverse effects on the body including your periods. Irregular periods are concerning. More so if getting pregnant is on the cards. Missing periods can also be a sign of an underlying medical issue. Take action early. Not ready for kids yet, but know you will be someday? You might be thinking about freezing your eggs.
Read on to learn more. The only way to completely prevent pregnancy and STDs is abstinence not having sex. If you do have sex, use a condom every time to protect against unplanned pregnancy and STDs. For added protection, many couples use condoms along with another method of birth control, like birth control pills or an IUD.
Talk to your doctor about the best type of birth control for you. Reviewed by: Amy W. Anzilotti, MD.
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