The one thing women would happily choose to just stop existing altogether is periods. You may also call it chums, Aunt flo, menstrual cycle, Red Riding Hood, or ‘that time of the month’. Each month it visits us and man, it pains! And if that wasn’t enough, sometimes they arrive too early or too late—both of these situations being super annoying and scary. But if this irregularity has been going on for quite some time and has become a pattern for you, it’s time you pay close attention to it.

A lot of women don’t have a habit of tracking their menstrual cycles every month. Which means, some women aren’t even aware if they’re experiencing irregular periods in the first place. But, ignoring it could turn it into something much more problematic. Which is why, we got in touch with Dr Kiran Coelho, a celebrity gynaecologist, who breaks down the causes, effects, and remedies for irregular periods. Read on to know what she had to say!

Why Do Women Have Irregular Periods?

Irregular periods may be due to various causes. It could be—1. Thyroid disorder-hypo or hyperthyroidism.2. Prolactin excess.3. Polycystic ovaries.4. Hormonal imbalance at extremes of age as in puberty or near menopause.5. Fibroids, endometriosis, endometrial polyps.6. drug intake like antidepressants.7. Stress causing hormone imbalance.8. Sudden weight gain or weight loss.

What Are The Effects Of Having Irregular Periods?

Irregular periods can cause psychological distress in females. Also, short-prolonged bleed may cause blood loss resulting in overall weakness and morbidity. Patients may also suffer from infertility, pain, acne, weight gain and other associated comorbidities.

What Are The Remedies For Irregular Periods?

Remedies actually depend on the cause for irregular periods. Some of the measures are—1. Weight loss as in polycystic ovaries.2. Thyroid level correction.3. Oral contraceptive pills for cycle regulation.4. Stress reduction with yoga, sports, hobby activities, music, dancing, etc.5. Antifibrinolytics for heavy bleeding.6. Removal of fibroids, polyps or uterus for fibroids, polyps, etc.

I have irregular periods at least once in a year, and the cause of it is usually stress. It is so important to take care of our bodies as well as our minds and keep a track of the changes happening inside of us. And I found that I’m not alone in this struggle when I read about other women facing similar problems on Malini’s Girl Tribe. They shared their struggle as well as their remedies for it and it brought me so much courage. If you are in the same boat or have any advice to give, do join the tribe here cause we’d love to hear what you have to say!

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