Causes of menstrual irregularity; we describe it as menstrual irregularity when periods occur more frequently than 21 days or at intervals longer than 35 days, or if there is intermenstrual bleeding. In a woman, the menstrual cycle occurs every 28-30 days on average, but menstruating every 21-35 days can also be considered normal. In other words, if a woman menstruates every 21 days or every 35 days and the menstrual rhythm is always this way, this does not indicate a pathology. Of course, it would be good to demonstrate that there is no underlying pathology through gynecological examination and ultrasonography.
Adolescent girls may have irregular periods in the 2-3 year period after they start menstruating; often this is not due to a pathology. However, if there is accompanying menstrual pain or if anemia accompanies excessive bleeding, an evaluation by a gynecologist should be recommended.
The causes of menstrual irregularity can be hormonal. Most frequently, polycystic ovary syndrome causes menstrual irregularity. Again, the menstrual rhythm is also disrupted during the transition to menopause or in early menopause. Other hormonal causes may be thyroid disorders or high levels of the milk hormone we call prolactin. Apart from hormonal problems, the presence of pathologies such as myomas or polyps in the uterus can also disrupt the menstrual rhythm. Endometriosis (chocolate cyst) disease is also one of the pathologies that can disrupt the menstrual rhythm.
In a woman with a complaint of menstrual irregularity, the first thing to be done should be a gynecological examination and ultrasonography. During the examination, it is possible to see cervical pathologies, pathologies such as myomas or polyps, and polycystic ovaries. The hormone test panel to be performed afterwards must include thyroid or prolactin levels. Drug treatments or surgical procedures can be applied to correct the problems identified as a result of this evaluation.
Does Menstrual Irregularity Lead to Infertility?
When hormonal causes, polycystic ovary syndrome, or menopausal status are detected as the cause of menstrual irregularity, infertility can also be seen in women. Thyroid gland problems and high prolactin can be corrected with medication. Polycystic ovary syndrome can cause infertility by leading to ovulation problems. Again, there may be menstrual irregularity in the menopausal transition period or early menopause, and this situation is one of the causes of infertility.
In summary, menstrual irregularity is a problem that must be evaluated by a physician in women of reproductive age. Underlying causes can be hormonal or originating from the uterus or ovaries. These causes can also lead to infertility. Polycystic ovary syndrome and early menopause are among the leading causes of menstrual irregularity that can cause infertility.
