Abnormal Menstrual Cycles: Triggers, Fertility, and Explanations
Oligomenorrhea, a condition characterised by infrequent menstrual periods, affects many women. This article explores the common causes, symptoms, and treatments for oligomenorrhea.
Oligomenorrhea can be caused by a variety of factors, with hormonal imbalances being a significant contributor. During periods of natural hormonal changes, such as puberty, perimenopause, and after childbirth or breastfeeding, estrogen and progesterone levels can fluctuate, leading to irregular periods[1][3].
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is another common cause. This condition, characterised by cysts in the ovaries, can result in high testosterone levels, causing irregular periods among other symptoms like acne, excessive hair growth, insulin resistance, depression, and trouble getting or staying pregnant[1][5].
Excessive exercise, particularly in sports that emphasise leanness, can also lead to oligomenorrhea due to the physiological stress of intense exercise[1][4]. Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, can cause absent or irregular periods, especially if there has been severe weight loss[1].
Breastfeeding can delay ovulation and menstruation due to hormonal changes[1][3]. Other health conditions associated with irregular periods include type 1 diabetes, Cushing's syndrome, primary ovarian insufficiency, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hormone-secreting tumors, and iron deficiency anemia[6].
People who exercise excessively may experience irregular periods. When people find it hard to stop exercising, it is known as compulsive exercise[1][4]. Thyroid disease can make periods heavy or light and can make them more or less frequent. It can also cause ovulation to stop in some people[7].
Extreme restriction of food or calorie intake can lead to irregular periods[6]. Endometriosis, a condition in which cells that usually grow inside the uterus grow outside of it, can cause significant pain, heavy periods, passing large blood clots, bleeding between periods, and problems getting pregnant[8].
Hormonal birth control can cause irregular periods initially, especially during the first few months, but they may become more regular or stop entirely over time[9].
Treatment for oligomenorrhea often involves addressing the underlying cause. Hormonal evaluation and therapy can help regulate menstrual cycles[2]. Lifestyle adjustments, such as changes in diet, exercise routine, and stress management, can improve menstrual regularity[2]. Medications may be prescribed to regulate hormonal imbalances[2].
Treating conditions like PCOS, thyroid issues, or eating disorders is crucial for managing oligomenorrhea[2][4]. For athletes or individuals with specific lifestyle factors contributing to oligomenorrhea, nutritional advice and stress management techniques may be beneficial[1][4].
Consulting a healthcare provider is essential to determine the cause of oligomenorrhea and develop a personalised treatment plan. If you are experiencing irregular periods, it is important to seek medical advice to rule out any underlying health conditions.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Oligomenorrhea. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/oligomenorrhea/symptoms-causes/syc-20355300 [2] American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2020). Oligomenorrhea. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/oligomenorrhea [3] National Health Service (NHS). (2021). Oligomenorrhoea. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/oligomenorrhoea/ [4] American Psychological Association. (2021). Compulsive Exercise. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/exercise-disorders/compulsive-exercise [5] American Academy of Family Physicians. (2021). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). https://familydoctor.org/condition/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos/ [6] Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Oligomenorrhea. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17087-oligomenorrhea [7] American Thyroid Association. (2021). Thyroid Disease and Menstrual Disorders. https://www.thyroid.org/patients/disease-information/womens-health/menstrual-disorders/ [8] Endometriosis Foundation of America. (2021). What is Endometriosis? https://www.endofound.org/endometriosis-101/what-is-endometriosis/ [9] Planned Parenthood. (2021). Birth Control Pills. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/birth-control-pill/birth-control-pills-faqs
- Women with diabetes, particularly type 1, may experience irregular menstrual cycles due to hormonal imbalances.
- Science has demonstrated a connection between bipolar disorder and irregular menstruation in women, though the exact relationship remains unclear.
- In the realm of health and wellness, predictive models can help diagnose and manage conditions like oligomenorrhea by identifying patterns and risk factors.
- A woman's health-and-wellness routine can influence her menstrual cycle, with excessive exercises, poor nutrition, and stress contributing to conditions like oligomenorrhea.
- Women's health issues, such as oligomenorrhea, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and menstrual irregularities associated with thyroid disease or eating disorders, require proper medical attention and treatment for effective management.
