Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Causes and When to Seek Help

Q: Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello： Based on your description, your condition appears to be anovulatory menstruation. <br>This is caused by the suppression of luteinizing hormone from the pituitary gland, which prevents the release of an egg in the previous cycle, leading to the failure of corpus luteum form

Are menstrual irregularities still present?

Hello doctor, my period started on August 15, but it might be related to the traditional Chinese medicine I took in July for dysmenorrhea.
This time, I haven't felt much discomfort, and the flow is not heavy, and I am no longer experiencing menstrual pain.
However, it hasn't stopped yet! I thought it would end around the 20th when the flow became very light, and I only needed panty liners, but it continued until the end of August.
A couple of days ago, after consuming some chicken wine, the flow increased again, and now I have to switch back to using sanitary pads.
Additionally, I am feeling some dull and aching sensations in my lower abdomen.
I am twenty years old and have no sexual experience, and my sleep schedule has been irregular for quite some time (at least a year).
Could this be due to hormonal imbalance? If I see a doctor, will I need a pelvic exam? (I am somewhat reluctant about that.) Thank you for your response.

Pan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/09/03

Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: Based on your description, your condition appears to be anovulatory menstruation.
This is caused by the suppression of luteinizing hormone from the pituitary gland, which prevents the release of an egg in the previous cycle, leading to the failure of corpus luteum formation and resulting in insufficient progesterone.
This is commonly referred to as menstrual irregularity, which can be triggered by excessive stress or the use of certain medications that affect the central nervous system.
You may consider visiting a gynecologist for an abdominal ultrasound examination and hormone supplementation to regulate your menstrual cycle.

Reply Date: 2007/09/03

More Info

Irregular menstrual cycles can be a source of concern for many women, and understanding the potential causes and when to seek medical help is crucial for maintaining reproductive health. Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced prolonged menstrual bleeding since August 15, which has fluctuated in intensity and is accompanied by some discomfort in your lower abdomen.
There are several factors that can contribute to irregular menstrual cycles, including hormonal imbalances, lifestyle factors, and underlying health conditions. Given that you mentioned taking traditional Chinese medicine for dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation), it's possible that this treatment may have influenced your menstrual cycle. Herbal remedies can sometimes affect hormone levels and menstrual patterns, leading to changes in cycle regularity and flow.

Hormonal imbalances are a common cause of irregular periods. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and other endocrine issues can disrupt the normal hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle. Stress, significant weight changes, and excessive exercise can also impact hormone levels and lead to irregularities.

Your mention of having an irregular sleep schedule for at least a year could also be a contributing factor. Sleep disturbances can affect the hypothalamus, which plays a key role in regulating the menstrual cycle. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress management are important for maintaining hormonal balance.

Regarding your question about whether to see a doctor and if an internal examination is necessary, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider if your menstrual irregularities persist, especially if you experience significant changes in flow, duration, or accompanying symptoms such as severe pain or discomfort. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, blood tests to check hormone levels, and possibly imaging studies to assess the reproductive organs.

While many women may feel hesitant about internal examinations, they are often a standard part of evaluating menstrual irregularities. These examinations can provide valuable information about the health of your reproductive system and help identify any underlying issues that may need to be addressed.

In summary, irregular menstrual cycles can arise from various factors, including hormonal imbalances, lifestyle changes, and health conditions. Given your symptoms and concerns, it would be prudent to seek medical advice to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and restore regularity to your menstrual cycle, ensuring better overall reproductive health.

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