Irregular periods can be mentally and physically taxing for a woman. Living with the anxiety of not knowing when you will get your next period is challenging, to say the least. Similarly, dealing with regular spotting and menstrual cramps for several days can be a hurdle in your everyday life.
Unfortunately, a large percentage of women suffer from these menstrual irregularities. Understanding and addressing the causes of irregular periods is crucial to improving the quality of life of women.
An average menstrual cycle lasts for 28 days but can span between 24 to 38 days for most women. If your periods do not occur regularly within this time frame, the following could be the causes of your irregular periods.
Excessive consumption of alcohol, sugar, and simple carbohydrates can lead to menstrual irregularities. Similarly, eating a diet low in essential nutrients can lead to irregular periods. According to studies, eating disorders are also one of the primary causes of menstrual disorders. If your diet is not well-balanced, you may need to correct it to regulate your periods.
Stress and menstrual health are closely interlinked. This is because the stress hormone cortisol directly impacts the estrogen and progesterone levels in the body. High stress boosts the cortisol levels, which lowers progesterone levels. This delays the shedding of the uterine lining and the corresponding period. So, stressful situations in your professional or personal life could be the reason behind your delayed period.
Perimenopause is the phase before the onset of menopause that is usually experienced by women in their 40s. During this phase, the ovaries produce lower quantities of estrogen, which can lead to irregular periods. Apart from menstrual irregularities, you may also experience hot flashes and tender breasts during perimenopause. These symptoms can persist until you stop menstruating altogether after a few years.
Any disease or condition that causes hormonal imbalance in women can lead to irregular periods. These conditions include PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), hypothyroidism, and hyperthyroidism. In PCOS, the ovaries overproduce testosterone, which disrupts ovulation. Similarly, abnormal levels of the thyroid hormone can impact the production of other hormones, leading to irregular periods. Additionally, breastfeeding, puberty, and birth control pills can also impact hormone levels and cause menstrual irregularities.
Inadequate sleep can also be the reason behind irregular periods. Studies reveal that sleep disorders such as Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome can lead to menstrual irregularities.
Try to get a healthy amount of sleep each night and regulate your bedtime. This will not only improve your menstrual health but also boost your mental health!
Several home remedies and natural therapies can help regulate your menstrual cycle. Try these perfectly safe and natural ways to prevent irregular periods.
Yoga can prevent hormonal imbalance in women, which can avoid irregular periods and menstrual cramps too. Furthermore, yoga and exercise can reduce your stress levels, which can also eliminate menstrual irregularities. Include yoga and exercise in your daily routine to improve your menstrual health.
Both overweight and underweight women are at a higher risk of irregular periods. So, try to maintain a healthy weight with a well-balanced diet and an active lifestyle. You can even consult a nutritionist if you are struggling to gain or lose weight.
Studies demonstrate that vitamin D deficiency can lead to menstrual disorders and irregular periods in women. Similarly, vitamin B is known to improve menstrual health in women. Therefore, consume foods rich in these vitamins, such as eggs, fatty fish, and milk. You can also get a boost of vitamin D from sunlight by spending some time outdoors.
Once you hit your 40s, the estrogen levels in the body go down, leading to menopausal symptoms. This is the time to invest in supplements that boost hormonal health in women. These supplements help maintain healthy estrogen levels to combat symptoms such as night sweats, hot flashes, and irregular periods.
Provitalize is a safe, natural alternative to hormone replacement therapy. It contains natural ingredients such as yam that boost estrogen levels. Additionally, it also contains ingredients to combat anxiety, hot flashes, and mood swings. This supplement can help you if you are struggling with menopausal symptoms.
Fermented foods such as kimchi and kombucha promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria. These bacteria encourage the production of enzymes that produce estrogen in the intestine. Fermented foods can help maintain healthy estrogen levels in the body, leading to regular periods.
Eating pineapple is a popular home remedy to regulate periods. Pineapple contains the enzyme bromelain, which is claimed to soften the uterine lining and promote regular menstrual cycles. The fruit also contains vitamin C, vitamin B, and fiber, which are beneficial for your overall health.
The best way to regulate your periods is to maintain an active and stress-free lifestyle. Also, consuming foods that maintain healthy estrogen levels can prevent menstrual disorders. However, if your irregular periods are caused by conditions such as menopause, PCOS, or hypothyroidism, you should consult a professional for the appropriate treatment.
Furthermore, consuming the best menopause supplements with natural ingredients can help you maintain your hormonal health after hitting 40.
Menoquil, one of the best menopause supplements on the market, has received excellent reviews from consumers. Taking the product may significantly reduce the distressing symptoms of menopause. Also, pairing this natural supplement with daily exercise and a vitamin-rich diet can allow you to enjoy optimal menstrual health.
References
[1] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/eat.20388
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6265788/
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