Irregular periods: 15 reasons why your menstrual cycle might be erratic Nature Cool

Irregular periods can be concerning and inconvenient. There are several potential reasons for an erratic menstrual cycle, ranging from lifestyle factors to medical conditions.

Here are 15 common causes:

1. Stress: High levels of stress can disrupt the hormones responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle, leading to irregular periods.
2. Weight Fluctuations: Significant weight loss or gain can affect hormone levels, which may cause changes in your menstrual cycle.
3. Excessive Exercise: Intense physical activity can lead to changes in hormone levels and menstrual irregularities.
4. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A common endocrine disorder that can cause irregular periods, along with other symptoms such as weight gain, acne, and excessive hair growth.
5. Thyroid Disorders: Both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can disrupt menstrual cycles.
6. Perimenopause: The transition period before menopause, known as perimenopause, often comes with irregular periods as hormone levels fluctuate.
7. Birth Control: Hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills, patches, or intrauterine devices (IUDs) can cause irregular bleeding, especially when you first start using them.
8. Breastfeeding: Prolactin, the hormone responsible for breast milk production, can suppress ovulation and lead to irregular periods.
9. Medications: Certain medications, such as antipsychotics, antidepressants, and chemotherapy drugs, can affect menstrual cycles.
10. Chronic Diseases: Conditions such as diabetes and celiac disease can impact menstrual regularity due to changes in hormonal balance and overall health.
11. Hormonal Imbalances: Imbalances in hormones like estrogen and progesterone can cause irregular periods. This can be due to various underlying health issues.
12. Uterine Abnormalities: Conditions like fibroids, polyps, or endometriosis can interfere with normal menstrual cycles.
13. Eating Disorders: Anorexia, bulimia, and other eating disorders can disrupt hormone levels and menstrual cycles.
14. Infections: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and other infections of the reproductive organs can lead to irregular periods.
15. Travel and Lifestyle Changes: Significant changes in routine, such as long-distance travel or changes in sleep patterns, can temporarily affect menstrual cycles.

If you experience persistent irregular periods, it is important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.