Menstrual disorders: how to manage your menstrual flow?

The average period lasts about 2 to 5 days each month. The average menstrual cycle lasts 28 days. Of course, every woman is different and therefore some women will have more irregular periods than others.

Summary

When do we talk about menstrual irregularity?
What are the causes of menstrual irregularity?

When are periods irregular?

Some women will worry that their period is a few days late, while others will have cycles that are 40 days longer and not worry. Although it is common to have irregular periods at least once in a lifetime, if they are too often irregular, it is important to be concerned to find the reason(s).

Disruption of menstrual frequency

A period disorder can be characterized by a change in the frequency of menstruation, such as:

Periods that are shorter than usual: if they are shorter than usual, for example they last only 2 or 3 days when they usually last more like 5 days, it is called a period disorder.
Long periods On the other hand, abnormally long periods that last 7 days or more when they usually last only a few days are also characteristic of a disorder.

Disruption of the intensity of the menstrual flow

A menstrual disorder is also characterized by a change in the intensity of the menstrual flow. This can be a lighter or heavier flow. A light period can be related to taking the contraceptive pill.

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What causes menstrual disorders?

There can be many causes of menstrual irregularity.

Puberty and adolescence

The first periods are often chaotic. During puberty, it is common to have irregular menstrual flows while the menstrual cycle is being set up and hormones are being regulated. It is estimated that it usually takes 1 to 2 years for periods to become regular.

Diet and health

Diet plays a major role in the menstrual cycle, its regularity, the pain of menstruation, its abundance, etc...

Eating disorders such as bulimia or anorexia will tend to cause irregular periods because of the fluctuations and hormonal imbalances they cause.

Mental health also has a big impact on the menstrual cycle. If you are stressed or anxious, you are likely to have irregular or longer periods.

Sleep

Sleep, like diet, plays a very important role in the menstrual cycle and its regularity. The better you sleep, the more regular your hormonal activity will be, and therefore your period. If you suffer frominsomnia during your periodit is quite possible that your period will be disrupted in the long term.

Intensive practice of a sport

It is common for sportswomen to have shorter periods or longer cycles, or even amenorrhea in some cases.

Premenopausal periods

As menopause approaches, it is common to have irregular menstrual flow. In fact, during the period of premenopausal periodDuring the premenopausal menstrual period, the ovaries may continue to secrete hormones for several months, but in an irregular manner.

Disorders of the vagina or uterus

Finally, irregular periods can also be a sign of vaginal or uterine disorders. Examples include polyps, uterine fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome. Certain pathologies such as a dysfunction of the thyroid, hypothalamus or pituitary gland can create irregular cycles.

The FAQ's of menstrual dysfunction

What causes period disruption?

There are many reasons for irregular cycles: uterine or vaginal pathologies, poor hygiene, stress, excessive sports activities, etc.

How to get back to a normal menstrual cycle?

A healthy diet and a good sleep pattern allow you to have a more regular cycle. But if your menstrual disorder persists, consult your doctor, it may be a more serious cause.

How serious is it to have an irregular period?

Having irregular, out-of-control periods can be a sign of a more serious condition or a mild menstrual cycle dysfunction.