She Strengthens

Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle: What’s Normal and What’s Not

Your menstrual cycle is a natural part of life, but it can be frustratingly unpredictable at times. With so many factors influencing its length and regularity, it’s essential to understand what’s normal and what’s not.

The Average Menstrual Cycle

While many people assume a typical menstrual cycle lasts 28 days, the reality is that only 10-15% of women have cycles that follow this exact pattern. In fact, a normal menstrual cycle can range from 21 to 35 days in length. What’s more, it’s entirely normal for your cycle to vary slightly from month to month.

Longer Cycles: What’s Behind the Delay?

If you’re experiencing periods that are more than 35 days apart, it’s considered a longer-than-normal cycle. This can be caused by various factors, including:

• Age: Cycles tend to be longer in the first few years after getting your period.
• Weight: Having too little body fat can cause periods to slow or stop, while being obese can also impact your cycle.
• Ovarian conditions: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and ovarian insufficiency syndrome can both slow or stop periods.
• Thyroid problems: An underactive thyroid can slow hormone production, leading to irregular cycles.
• Mental health issues: Depression and high stress levels have been linked to irregular cycles.
• Pituitary tumors: Benign tumors in the pituitary gland can disrupt hormone production, affecting your cycle.
• Menopause: The transition to menopause can cause irregular bleeding or cycles.

Shorter Cycles: What’s Causing the Rush?

On the other hand, very short cycles can make it seem like you’re getting two periods in a month. This can be caused by:

• Pregnancy-related issues: Implantation bleeding, miscarriage, or hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause spotting or irregular bleeding.
• Hormonal issues: PCOS can cause bleeding between periods.
• Fibroids and cysts: These growths can cause heavy bleeding and spotting.
• Endometriosis: Women with endometriosis may experience heavy, irregular, and painful bleeding.
• STIs: Chlamydia and gonorrhea can trigger heavy bleeding and bleeding between periods.
• Menopause: Hormonal changes during menopause can cause shorter or more irregular cycles.

Tracking Your Cycle: Why It Matters

Keeping track of your period is crucial for understanding your overall health. By monitoring your cycle, you can:

• Identify potential underlying health issues
• Plan for ovulation and fertility
• Avoid unexpected period surprises

Improving Cycle Irregularity

If your periods feel out of control, simple lifestyle changes can help regulate your cycle. Try:

• Achieving a healthy weight
• Managing stress
• Regular exercise, including yoga
• Ruling out underlying health conditions
• Considering birth control options

When to Consult Your Doctor

While occasional cycle irregularity is normal, you should consult your doctor if:

• Your periods are fewer than 21 days apart or more than 35 days apart
• You experience erratic or painful periods
• You haven’t had a period in more than 90 days and you’re not pregnant
• You’re experiencing spotting
• Your periods last longer than 7 days or are extremely heavy
• There’s a significant difference between your longest and shortest cycle
• You’re trying to get pregnant and experiencing irregular cycles

Remember, understanding your menstrual cycle is key to maintaining good reproductive health. By being aware of what’s normal and what’s not, you can take control of your cycle and seek help when needed.