Ignoring irregular periods can be costly, understand the reasons from experts

Most women in the reproductive age group have a normal menstrual cycle of 24 to 38 days and it lasts for 8 days or less. During this time, bleeding occurs around 35 ml (20 to 80 ml).

Most women in the reproductive age group 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 bleeding occurs. 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 cycle is either of short duration or lasts 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 bear abdominal cramps (stomach cramps and sharp pain). 

Dr. Neha Gupta, Senior Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fortis Hospital, Noida, explains that anovulatory cycle usually lasts for 2 years after the onset of periods (menarchy) and is seen in women approaching menopause. There can be many reasons behind irregular periods: 

* These are non-cancerous tumors that form from the muscles of the uterus. They can be one or more and small or large. Often, submucous fibroids or large intramural fibroids are the cause of excessive bleeding and irregular menstrual cycles.

* Endometrial polyp

* Hormonal abnormalities: thyroid or prolactin hormone 

* Irregular periods and less frequent ovulation due to insulin resistance can also cause delay in cycle and more bleeding during periods.

* Low calorie (starvation) or high calorie intake can also affect periods.

* Extremely low or excessive weight can also be a reason. 

* This can also happen due to intake of antidepressant medicines, steroid hormones, i-pill, irregular intake of contraceptive pills and blood thinners.

* Sometimes the body can temporarily stop periods due to serious illnesses and recovery from illness.

* Infections: Tuberculosis (TB), pelvic inflammatory disease

* Miscarriage: Sometimes due to damage to the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium) or infection after a miscarriage.

* Any growth on the cervix can cause bleeding after periods or sexual intercourse. Cancer of the uterus can cause the inner wall of the uterus or the endometrium layer to thicken and cause abnormal bleeding.