Menstruation is a cycle in women that occurs every month. Even so, the menstrual cycle is sometimes difficult to predict. Because menstruation can come early or late. Changes in the menstrual cycle are not without cause and can occur in women at any age. For that, let's discuss the causes of menstrual cycle changes.

Can Menstrual Cycles Change?

Changes in the menstrual cycle are common and often occur in most women. However, there are some changes that may require more attention or medical treatment.

First, if there is a change in cycle duration. Normally, the menstrual cycle lasts around 21-35 days with periods lasting 2-7 days. If there is a significant change in the duration of your menstruation which is shorter than 21 days or more than 35 days, it should not be underestimated.

Also, pay attention to changes in the volume or consistency of your menstrual blood. If there is heavy bleeding (menorrhagia) or drastic changes in blood consistency such as large clots and very dark colored blood, this could be a sign of a health problem.

In addition, if changes in the menstrual cycle are accompanied by unusual pain, it could be an indication of a health problem such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids. While hormonal changes during menstruation are also normal. However, pay attention to hormonal changes that cause mood swings during menstruation, premenstrual symptoms (PMS) that are more severe than usual can interfere with your activities.

If you experience noticeable menstrual cycle changes that lead to health problems, it is highly recommended to consult a doctor to find out the cause and get the right treatment.

Causes of Menstrual Cycle Changes

There are several factors that can cause changes in the menstrual cycle. Some of these include:

Stress

Physical or emotional stress can affect the hormones in your body and cause changes in your menstrual cycle. This is because stress can interfere with the part of the brain that controls the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle.

Weight Change

Significant weight loss or gain can affect hormone production in the body and disrupt the menstrual cycle. Even the wrong diet can make menstruation messy or stop.

Changes in Physical Activity

Changes in physical activity levels, such as excessive strenuous exercise or a drastic increase in physical activity, can affect hormones and cause changes in the menstrual cycle.

Hormonal Disorders

Hormonal disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, or hyperprolactinemia can cause changes in the menstrual cycle. In addition, these hormonal disorders can appear accompanied by several other symptoms.

Use of Medications

Some medications, such as antihypertensive drugs, antidepressants, or drugs that affect the hormonal system, can affect the menstrual cycle. Some types of drugs that have side effects include hormone replacement therapy drugs, blood thinners, thyroid drugs, epilepsy drugs, antidepressants, aspirin and ibuprofen chemotherapy drugs.

Polyps or Fibroids

Uterine polyps or fibroids can disrupt the menstrual cycle and cause irregular bleeding. Most fibroids are non-malignant and vary in size from as small as an apple seed to a grapefruit. This condition can also cause pain in the pelvis and lower back.

Perimenopause

The menstrual cycle changes that occur before menopause, known as perimenopause, are a normal part of the process leading up to menopause. During this period, menstrual cycles may become irregular.

Pregnancy or Pregnancy Loss

Pregnancy or pregnancy loss can affect your menstrual cycle. If your menstrual cycle was previously regular, then post-partum or abortion it can become irregular. Likewise, if your menstrual cycle was previously irregular, it can aggravate the condition.

Other Diseases or Medical Conditions

Some diseases or other medical conditions, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), endometriosis or cancer, can affect the menstrual cycle. These conditions can even cause painful menstrual cramps, heavy bleeding and irregular periods. (Aq/LDS)