Women typically get their periods every 24 to 38 days, with menstruation lasting two to eight days. Irregular periods are defined as those with duration changes every month or gaps lasting longer than 38 days. Before you make an appointment with a gynecology center, learn about some common causes of irregular periods.

A Guide to Irregular Menstrual Cycles

1. Pregnancy

Pregnancy results in spotting, missed periods, and additional symptoms as the body undergoes hormonal changes. Morning sickness, breast tenderness, back pain, fatigue, and sensitivity to smells are frequently experienced by pregnant women. Breastfeeding also causes period irregularity because prolactin, the hormone that produces breast milk, restricts reproductive hormone distribution.

2. Weight Gain or Loss

Severe weight gain causes hormonal and insulin fluctuations that may result in irregular periods. Conversely, rapid weight loss can also cause irregularities, if not missed periods, because the body may no longer produce the hormones essential to ovulation. Too much exercise can also cause the body to halt menstruation-related hormone production.

3. Birth Control Changes

Hormonal birth control methods, including pills and implants provided by gynecology centers, can cause spotting and light and missed periods because they inhibit egg production.

Bleeding may also be lighter than usual in women who use hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) because of the progesterone in them that stops ovulation. Copper IUDs can also cause irregularities. They may make you bleed more due to uterine inflammation. Although the metal is toxic to sperm, inflammation in the uterus can make periods heavier or last longer.

4. Perimenopause

The precursor to menopause, perimenopause typically affects women in their 40s and may last four to eight years. As estrogen levels fluctuate, so does the body’s ability to produce regular periods. During perimenopause, they may be lighter or heavier, depending on hormone levels.

5. Stress

Stress, whether from overwork or relationship troubles, can affect the body in numerous ways, including the menstrual cycle. It can be late, lighter, or heavier because stress hormones disrupt menstrual hormone production.

If you need help determining the cause of irregular periods, contact Midwest Urogynecology in St. Louis, MO. Headed by John P. Judd, MD, this gynecology center helps women with endometriosis, ovarian cysts, prolapsed bladders, and other pelvic health issues in a safe, welcoming environment. Call (314) 596-9955 today to make an appointment, or learn more about their services online.