Should You Get Endocrine Testing for Irregular Menstrual Cycles?

Is it an endocrine disorder?

Hello, my menstrual cycles were normal before high school, but after graduation, they became irregular.
Sometimes I don't have my period for a year.
I've seen both traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine, but the situation hasn't improved.
In the past year or two, it's been somewhat better, with my period coming about once every six months.
I would like to know if I should undergo an endocrine evaluation or consult a gynecologist.

Sha Sha, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/11/11

Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine

It is advisable to undergo an endocrine evaluation, which can be done through either a metabolism specialist or an obstetrician-gynecologist.

Reply Date: 2004/11/11

More Info

Irregular menstrual cycles can be a source of concern for many women, especially when they have previously experienced regular cycles. Given your history of normal menstrual cycles during high school and the subsequent irregularities post-graduation, it is indeed advisable to seek further evaluation.
Firstly, it is important to understand that menstrual irregularities can arise from a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, significant weight changes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and other underlying health conditions. Since you have already consulted both traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine without significant improvement, it may be time to consider more targeted testing.

Endocrine testing can be particularly useful in identifying hormonal imbalances that may be contributing to your irregular cycles. Tests may include measuring levels of hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and thyroid hormones. These tests can provide valuable insights into your reproductive health and help identify any underlying endocrine disorders.

In addition to endocrine testing, it would also be beneficial to consult with a gynecologist. A gynecologist can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination, pelvic ultrasound, and possibly additional tests to assess the health of your reproductive organs. They can help determine if there are any structural issues, such as ovarian cysts or fibroids, that may be affecting your menstrual cycle.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as excessive hair growth, acne, or weight gain, these could be indicative of conditions like PCOS, which is often associated with irregular menstrual cycles. In such cases, a gynecologist can provide a comprehensive treatment plan that may include lifestyle changes, medication, or other interventions to help regulate your cycles.

In summary, given your history of irregular menstrual cycles, it is advisable to pursue both endocrine testing and a consultation with a gynecologist. This dual approach will help ensure that any hormonal imbalances are identified and addressed, while also ruling out any structural issues that may be contributing to your symptoms. Early intervention can be crucial in managing menstrual irregularities and improving overall reproductive health.

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