What are the causes of an irregular menstrual cycle?
Irregular menstrual cycles are often caused by hormones not being as regulated as they should
be. Menstrual cycles and periods are controlled by several hormones - such as progesterone,
estrogens, FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone), LH (Luteinising Hormone) and GnRH
(Gonadotropin Releasing Hormones) - which are coordinated to trigger ovulation and
menstruation. Irregular cycles usually the result of these hormonal signals becoming
unbalanced.
Hormones can become unbalanced by many factors:
Stress: stress is a common cause of irregular periods. Fatigue and anxiety can often
cause fertility hormones to become deregulated.
Diet: extreme weight loss or weight gain can also cause irregular menstrual cycles or
periods by affecting hormone levels. Women with anorexia often have irregular
menstrual cycles.
Excessive exercise: intense exercise is another cause of irregular menstrual cycles, as it
can cause hormonal imbalance.
Menopause: irregular menstrual cycles can be a signal that menopause is approaching.
Hormonal birth control: when you stop using the contraceptive pill, your body needs
time to readjust, and it is quite common to experience irregular menstrual cycles for a
few months.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases: some sexually transmitted diseases or STDs can also