Irregular Periods: Causes and Concerns for Young Women

Menstrual period

Before high school, my menstrual cycle was very regular.
However, after starting high school, my periods became very irregular, and the flow has been decreasing each time.
Sometimes, I only need to use panty liners throughout my period.
Is having a light flow a normal phenomenon, or could it be that the blood is being retained in my body, which might affect my health? This month, my period started while I was having intercourse with my boyfriend, but for some reason, it stopped the next day and there was no bleeding on the third day.
Could this be related to having intercourse? Also, I had a miscarriage a few months ago; could that have an impact?

Xingzi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/08/23

Dr. Liang Yinpan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, Miss Sachiko! Your previously regular menstrual cycle has become irregular and is decreasing in flow.
There are three possible reasons for this: 1.
Hormonal imbalance leading to anovulation or gradual ovarian atrophy.
2.
Endometrial inflammation causing atrophy or adhesions of the endometrium.
3.
Ovarian tumors secreting hormones that interfere with ovarian function.
Since you had a miscarriage a few months ago, it is most likely due to the second reason.
I recommend that you consult a gynecologist for a detailed evaluation to prevent potential infertility issues.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2004/08/23

More Info

Irregular menstrual periods can be a common concern for young women, especially during the transition from adolescence to adulthood. It’s important to understand that various factors can contribute to changes in menstrual cycles, including hormonal fluctuations, lifestyle changes, stress, and underlying health conditions.

Firstly, it’s not uncommon for young women to experience irregular periods during their teenage years. The menstrual cycle can take time to establish a regular pattern, and it may be influenced by factors such as stress, changes in weight, exercise habits, and even diet. If you have noticed that your periods have become less frequent and the flow has decreased, it could be a result of hormonal changes that are still stabilizing.
Regarding the concern about having lighter periods, it is generally not a cause for alarm unless accompanied by other symptoms. A lighter flow can be normal for some women, especially if they are experiencing hormonal fluctuations. However, if you notice significant changes in your menstrual cycle, such as a complete cessation of periods (amenorrhea) or if the flow becomes excessively light over several cycles, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. They can perform tests to rule out conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or other hormonal imbalances.

You mentioned that your period started during intercourse and then stopped shortly after. This occurrence can sometimes happen due to a variety of reasons. It’s possible that the physical activity and arousal during intercourse could have triggered the onset of your period. Additionally, stress or emotional factors related to sexual activity can also influence your menstrual cycle. However, if you are experiencing unusual bleeding or spotting, it’s essential to discuss this with a healthcare provider to ensure there are no underlying issues.

If you have had a pregnancy in the past few months, it could also impact your menstrual cycle. After a pregnancy, whether it resulted in a live birth or miscarriage, your body undergoes significant hormonal changes that can affect your menstrual cycle. It may take some time for your hormones to return to their pre-pregnancy state, which can lead to irregular periods.

Regarding your concern about blood "being stored" in your body, it’s important to clarify that menstrual blood does not accumulate in the body. The menstrual cycle is a natural process where the lining of the uterus thickens in preparation for a potential pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, this lining is shed during menstruation. If you are not experiencing regular periods, it may mean that your body is not shedding the uterine lining as it should, which can lead to other health concerns if left unaddressed.

In conclusion, while irregular periods can be common, especially in young women, it’s essential to monitor your symptoms and seek medical advice if you notice significant changes. A healthcare provider can help determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed and provide guidance on how to manage your menstrual health. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and being aware of your body’s signals are all important steps in ensuring your reproductive health.

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