A healthy menstrual cycle is an important indicator of a woman’s overall health. However, irregular periods are a common concern among women of all ages. While occasional changes in menstrual cycles are normal, frequent irregularities could signal underlying health issues that should not be ignored. At Your Center Polyclinic, Dubai, our experienced gynecologists are here to help you understand, diagnose, and manage menstrual irregularities effectively.
What Are Irregular Periods?
An average menstrual cycle typically lasts between 21 to 35 days. Periods are considered irregular if:
-
The cycle length varies significantly each month
-
Bleeding is much heavier or lighter than usual
-
Periods occur more frequently than every 21 days or less often than every 35 days
-
Menstrual bleeding lasts longer than 7 days
Irregular periods can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from lifestyle changes to medical conditions. Understanding the root cause is essential for proper treatment.
Major Causes of Irregular Periods
1. Hormonal Imbalances
Hormones like estrogen and progesterone regulate the menstrual cycle. Any disruption in their balance can lead to irregular periods. Common conditions that cause hormonal imbalances include:
-
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a common endocrine disorder that affects how a woman’s ovaries work. It often leads to missed, infrequent, or prolonged periods.
-
Thyroid Disorders: Both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can disturb menstrual cycles.
-
Perimenopause: As women approach menopause, fluctuations in hormone levels can cause irregular cycles.
2. Stress
High levels of physical or emotional stress can interfere with the hypothalamus — the part of the brain that controls the hormones responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle. This can result in delayed, skipped, or irregular periods.
3. Excessive Exercise
While regular physical activity is healthy, excessive or intense training can disrupt menstrual cycles, particularly in athletes. This happens due to reduced body fat and hormonal changes caused by extreme physical stress.
4. Weight Fluctuations
Sudden weight gain or loss can affect hormone production and lead to irregular menstruation. Low body weight (often seen in eating disorders like anorexia) and obesity are both risk factors for menstrual irregularities.
5. Medications and Birth Control
Certain medications, especially hormonal birth control methods like pills, injections, or intrauterine devices (IUDs), can affect the regularity of periods. It might take several months for the cycle to stabilize after starting or stopping hormonal birth control.
6. Chronic Health Conditions
Underlying medical conditions can also cause irregular periods. These include:
-
Diabetes: Poorly controlled blood sugar levels can affect hormonal balance.
-
Celiac Disease: An autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten can interfere with nutrient absorption, impacting menstrual health.
-
Hyperprolactinemia: Elevated levels of the hormone prolactin can disrupt the menstrual cycle.
7. Uterine and Endometrial Conditions
Structural abnormalities like fibroids, polyps, or endometriosis can cause heavier, longer, or more frequent periods. These conditions require medical evaluation and personalized treatment.
8. Breastfeeding
Many women experience irregular or absent periods while breastfeeding due to elevated prolactin levels, which suppress ovulation.
When to See a Doctor?
You should consult a gynecologist in dubai at Your Center Polyclinic if you experience:
-
Periods that suddenly become irregular
-
Missed periods for three or more cycles (without pregnancy)
-
Excessively heavy bleeding (soaking through one or more pads/tampons every hour)
-
Periods lasting longer than 7 days
-
Severe pain during periods
-
Bleeding between periods
Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent complications like infertility, anemia, or other chronic health issues.
How Your Center Polyclinic Can Help
At Your Center Polyclinic, we offer comprehensive gynecological care to address menstrual irregularities. Our services include:
-
Thorough medical evaluation and history assessment
-
Hormonal testing and thyroid function tests
-
Pelvic ultrasound to detect structural abnormalities
-
Personalized treatment plans, including lifestyle counseling, medication management, or surgical options if needed
Our experienced doctors take a compassionate, holistic approach to women’s health, ensuring you feel comfortable, informed, and supported throughout your care journey.
Conclusion
Irregular periods can be more than just an inconvenience — they can be a sign of deeper health concerns. If you’re experiencing irregular menstrual cycles, don’t hesitate to seek help. At Your Center Polyclinic, Dubai, we are committed to providing expert diagnosis, treatment, and compassionate care to help you achieve optimal reproductive health. Book your appointment today and take the first step towards understanding and managing your menstrual health.
