Are irregular menstrual cycles normal?
Q:
Are irregular menstrual cycles normal?
A:
“It depends:
Irregular menstrual cycles are rather common – but not necessarily normal,” says Devanshi Somaiya, M.D., F.A.C.O.G., a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic. “Menstrual cycles usually occur every 28 days but may range between 21 and 24 days for some, and 33 to 35 for others. If cycles occur inconsistently, at different frequencies, more frequently than every 21 days, or more than 35 days apart, then cycles can be considered abnormal.”
Dr. Somaiya says many factors can contribute to menstrual disruptions, including:
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Eating disorders leading to excessive weight changes
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Premature ovarian insufficiency before age 40
• Pelvic infection or inflammatory disease (PID)
• Uterine fibroids or endometrial polyps
• Hormonal disorders such as thyroid disease and pituitary disorder
She advises a gynecological exam if you:
• Think you might be pregnant
• Experience severe pain during or between periods
• Notice unusually heavy bleeding
• Experience an abnormal discharge
• Have a period lasting longer than seven days
• Inexplicably miss a period
• Notice continuing irregular periods without a predictable pattern
• Have unexplained vaginal bleeding
“Over time, persistent irregular cycles can increase the risk of developing uterine cancer, so it’s important to schedule a medical evaluation to address the condition – and the sooner, the better,” concludes Dr. Somaiya.
Bilingual in English and Hindi, Dr. Somaiya cares for patients at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic Downtown at The Shops at 4 Houston Center.