Most women of reproductive age have a normal menstrual cycle of 24 to 38 days and it lasts for 8 days or less. During this time, about 35 ml (20 to 80 ml) of blood is bleed. The difference between the shortest and longest menstrual cycle is 7 to 9 days. But 14% to 25% of women have irregular cycles, that is, their menstrual cycles are either of shorter duration or last a little longer than normal. It is also possible that their bleeding is more or less than normal, or it also happens that sometimes they have to endure abdominal cramps (stomach cramps and sharp pains).
Dr. Neha Gupta, Senior Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fortis Hospital, Noida, explains that anovulatory cycles usually last for 2 years after the onset of menstruation (rajshahi) and are seen in women approaching menopause. There can be several reasons behind irregular menstruation:
* These are non-cancerous tumors that form from the muscles of the uterus. These can be one or more and small or large. Often, submucous fibroids or large intramural fibroids cause excessive bleeding and irregular menstrual cycles.
* Endometrial polyp
* Hormonal abnormalities: thyroid or prolactin hormones
* Insulin resistance can also cause irregular menstrual periods and infrequent ovulation, leading to delayed menstrual cycles and heavier bleeding during menstruation.
* Low calorie (starvation) or high calorie intake can also affect menstruation.
* Too little or too much weight can also be a cause.
* It can also be caused due to irregular intake of anti-depressant drugs, steroid hormones, i-pills, contraceptive pills and blood thinners.
* Sometimes serious illnesses and recovery from disease can cause the body to temporarily stop menstruating.
* Infections: Tuberculosis (TB), pelvic inflammatory disease
* Miscarriage: Sometimes this happens due to damage to the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium) or due to infection after a miscarriage.
* Any growth on the cervix can sometimes cause bleeding after intercourse. Uterine cancer can thicken the inner wall of the uterus or the endometrium layer and cause abnormal bleeding.
If a young woman has complained of irregular menstruation for the first time, she should avoid pregnancy at all costs. After this, prepare a menstrual calendar. If there are at least 3 cycles of abnormal bleeding or menstruation affects the normal routine, then definitely consult a gynecologist. In most cases, you will be advised to get a blood test and ultrasound done. In some cases, a Pap smear test is also recommended.