What Are the Causes of Irregular Menstral Cycle?

Many factors can cause an irregular period.

"A textbook period happens every 24-29 days," according to Dr. Marcelle Pick, but menstrual cycles that fall in the 23- to 35-day range are common. Because a "regular" period can be different for every woman, "irregular periods are simply what is irregular for you," she says.

Time Frame

Women of all ages may experience irregular menstrual cycles.

According to WebMD, when a girl first begins to menstruate, it "may take several years for the hormones that control menstruation to reach a balance." Women can also experience irregular periods as they approach menopause.

Diet

Eat healthy

Excessive weight gain or loss can cause irregular periods. Eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia can interrupt a normal menstrual cycle.

Exercise

Athletes can miss periods.

Endurance athletes can experience irregular periods during times of intense physical exercise.

Health

Both physical illness and emotional stress can cause an irregular menstrual cycle. Hormone problems might "cause a change in the levels of the hormones that the body needs to support menstruation."

Lifestyle

Smoking, drug use and excessive alcohol use can all be factors responsible for irregular periods.

References

• WebMD
• Women to Women