Irregular Periods: Causes and Impacts on Fertility

Menstrual issues

I have been experiencing delayed menstrual periods lately.
My period started on June 23rd, but in July it came on the 29th, which is a delay of seven days.
Normally, my period should have started on August 29th, but today is September 2nd and it still hasn't come.
My periods used to be very regular until July of this year when they became irregular.
Is this delay a cause for concern? Could it affect my ability to conceive? I have also been dealing with chronic lower abdominal pain for over a year.
I have seen many gynecologists for internal examinations and ultrasounds, and everything appeared normal.
Later, I was diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome by a gastroenterologist.
However, my lower abdominal pain has not improved.
I wonder if there is a connection.

Yiyi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/09/01

Dr. Liu Yuhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

"...Is there a problem with having a delayed menstrual cycle? Will it affect my ability to conceive?..." To determine if it will affect conception, it is essential to check for ovulation.
Methods to assess ovulation include: 1.
Daily tracking of basal body temperature 2.
Continuous ultrasound measurement of ovarian follicle size 3.
Performing a urine luteinizing hormone (LH) test around the estimated ovulation period.
For such concerns, it is necessary to visit a gynecologist in person to get answers.
The gastroenterologist has diagnosed irritable bowel syndrome...
However, the lower abdominal pain has not improved yet...
If the gastroenterologist has already diagnosed irritable bowel syndrome, you can discuss your current condition during your next appointment.
Online consultations cannot replace an in-person examination by a physician.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2012/09/01

More Info

Understanding irregular periods and their impact on fertility is a multifaceted issue that can be influenced by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, lifestyle changes, and underlying medical conditions. Your experience of having a regular menstrual cycle that has recently become irregular, with delays of several days, can be concerning, especially when you are trying to conceive.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that menstrual cycles can naturally fluctuate due to a variety of reasons. Stress, changes in weight, exercise habits, and even changes in diet can all contribute to irregularities in your cycle. Additionally, conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders can also lead to irregular periods. Since you mentioned having chronic lower abdominal pain and a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it is possible that stress and discomfort from these conditions could be affecting your menstrual cycle as well.

Regarding your specific questions about the impact of irregular periods on fertility, it is crucial to understand that ovulation is key to conception. A regular menstrual cycle typically indicates regular ovulation, which is essential for pregnancy. However, if your cycles are becoming irregular, it may indicate that ovulation is also irregular. This can make it more challenging to predict your fertile window, which is the time when you are most likely to conceive. If ovulation does not occur, it can lead to difficulties in becoming pregnant.

In your case, the fact that your menstrual cycle was regular and has now become irregular could potentially affect your chances of conception. It is advisable to track your cycles and any associated symptoms closely. If your cycles continue to be irregular, or if you experience significant pain, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation to rule out any underlying conditions that could be impacting your fertility.

Moreover, since you have been experiencing lower abdominal pain for over a year, it is essential to address this issue as well. Chronic pain can be a sign of various conditions, and while your ultrasounds have come back normal, it may be worth seeking a second opinion or further testing to ensure that there are no underlying issues that could be affecting both your menstrual cycle and your fertility.

In summary, irregular periods can indeed impact fertility by making it more difficult to predict ovulation. If you are experiencing significant changes in your menstrual cycle, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider who can help identify any underlying issues and provide guidance on how to optimize your chances of conception. Additionally, managing stress and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also play a significant role in regulating your menstrual cycle and improving overall reproductive health.

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