Irregular Periods: Can I Still Have Children?

Menstruation

My menstrual period comes only twice a year.
I am not married, and this has been the case since I was 15 years old.
I need to take medication to induce my period.
Will this affect my ability to have children in the future after I get married? How can I make my period come every month? I currently weigh 94 kg and am 167 cm tall.
Thank you, and I hope to receive your response.

Yafen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/11/11

Dr. Zhuang Zhijian reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Menstruation is a phenomenon caused by ovulation from the ovaries.
If your body weight is too high, it can affect ovarian function and ovulation.
It is recommended that you try to reduce your weight.
If your period has been absent for too long, it is best to visit a hospital for medication to induce menstruation, but it is not necessary to regulate it to arrive precisely every month.
If ovulation is not occurring, medication can be used to stimulate ovulation to achieve pregnancy.
What you should focus on right now is: losing weight and tracking your basal body temperature.

Reply Date: 2004/11/11

More Info

Irregular menstrual cycles can be concerning, especially when considering future fertility. Based on your description, it seems that you experience menstruation only twice a year, which is significantly less frequent than the average cycle of 28 days. This condition is known as oligomenorrhea, and it can be caused by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, weight issues, stress, and underlying medical conditions.

Given your height of 167 cm and weight of 94 kg, it is important to consider the impact of body weight on menstrual regularity. Obesity can lead to hormonal imbalances, particularly involving estrogen and insulin, which can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle. This disruption can affect ovulation, making it more challenging to conceive in the future.
To improve the regularity of your menstrual cycle and enhance your chances of having children in the future, here are some steps you can consider:
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: It is crucial to speak with a healthcare professional, such as a gynecologist or an endocrinologist, who can evaluate your specific situation. They may recommend blood tests to check hormone levels, including thyroid hormones, prolactin, and androgens, to identify any underlying issues.

2. Weight Management: Achieving a healthy weight can significantly improve menstrual regularity. A balanced diet and regular exercise can help you lose weight and regulate your hormones. Aim for a gradual weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week, which is considered safe and sustainable.

3. Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating regular physical activity into your routine can help manage weight and improve overall health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, along with strength training exercises on two or more days a week.

4. Medication: If hormonal imbalances are identified, your doctor may prescribe medications such as hormonal contraceptives to help regulate your menstrual cycle. These medications can also provide additional benefits, such as reducing the risk of endometrial cancer in women with irregular periods.

5. Monitoring Your Cycle: Keeping track of your menstrual cycle can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns and make informed decisions about your reproductive health. Apps and calendars can be useful tools for this purpose.

6. Consider Fertility Evaluation: If you are planning to conceive in the future and continue to experience irregular periods, you may want to discuss fertility evaluation options with your healthcare provider. This may include assessments of ovulation, ovarian reserve, and overall reproductive health.

7. Manage Stress: High levels of stress can also impact menstrual cycles. Consider incorporating stress-reducing activities into your routine, such as yoga, meditation, or mindfulness practices.

In summary, while irregular periods can pose challenges for future fertility, there are steps you can take to improve your menstrual regularity and overall reproductive health. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to address any underlying issues and develop a personalized plan that suits your needs. With the right approach, many women with irregular cycles can successfully conceive and have healthy pregnancies.

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