Flowing Against The Norm: Your Guide to Understanding Irregular Periods
Are you experiencing late or missed periods? Know you are not alone as up to 25% of American women have irregular menstrual cycles. The average cycle duration is anywhere from 21 to 35 days. An irregular menstrual cycle occurs when the duration of your period unexpectedly deviates from this typical range. If you are certain you are not pregnant or experiencing perimenopause, continue reading to explore other factors that can lead to disruption of your cycle!
Common Causes of Irregular Periods
There can be several reasons as to why your cycle is interrupted. Below are some of the common causes of irregular periods.
- You just started menstruating. During the onset of menstruation, it may require a period of adjustment before your menstrual cycle establishes a regular pattern.
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a condition of the ovaries where excess hormones called androgens are produced. As a result of hormonal imbalance, there may be a delay or absence of ovulation. Ovulation is the process by which a mature egg is released from the ovary which typically leads to either fertilization or menstruation. While there is no cure for PCOS, your provider may discuss a treatment plan to help manage your symptoms.
- Diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can be associated with longer menstrual cycles. In fact, women with PCOS are more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes. Thus, PCOS is thought to be the link between diabetes and irregular cycles.
- Medications. The medications you take may have irregular periods as a side effect. Birth control, antiepileptics and antipsychotics are common drugs that may cause changes in your cycle. Always discuss the potential side effects of your medications with your provider.
- Underweight. Having a lower body mass index may increase your risk of experiencing irregular cycles. Those who are living with eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia are also at risk. Being underweight may cause deficiencies in the production and circulation of hormones that regulate your cycle. If you are experiencing drastic weight loss and low appetite, please consult your provider.
- Stress. The presence of stress hormones, such as cortisol, can lead to changes in your cycle. Persistent stress can lead to the delay or complete absence of your period.
While the factors above are common causes of irregular cycles, this is not an exhaustive list. If you have been experiencing late and missed periods, schedule an appointment with us for a personalized examination to understand the root cause of your menstrual inconsistencies!
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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). John Hopkins Medicine. Published February 28, 2022. Accessed June 30, 2023. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos
Researchers reveal link between PCOS, type 2 diabetes. Endocrine Society. Published August 29, 2017. Accessed June 30, 2023. https://www.endocrine.org/news-and-advocacy/news-room/2017/researchers-reveal-link-between-pcos-type-2-diabetes
Irregular Periods: Why Is My Period Late? – Penn Medicine. Accessed June 30, 2023. https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/womens-health/2020/november/irregular-periods-why-is-my-period-late
About Dr. Peggy Roberts:
Dr. Peggy Roberts is a board certified, New York licensed Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. She has spent over a decade caring for women of all ages. She has extensive experience in preventative medicine for women, high-risk pregnancies, other medicine and aesthetics.
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