The Science Behind Abnormal Periods

Menstrual periods can differ from woman to woman. For most women, the average menstrual period extends from 4 to 7 days. Usually, menstrual cycles range from 21 days to 35 days. However, when a woman undergoes menstrual cycles that differ greatly from these typical parameters, it is known as abnormal periods. An abnormal menstrual cycle can involve irregular periods, non-existent periods, and periods with extremely heavy bleeding.

Symptoms of Abnormal Periods

The common symptoms of abnormal menstruation include the following:

• Irregular Periods: A woman's menstrual period lasts for more than 7 days and she suffers from frequent bleeding or spotting (light bleeding between menstrual cycles, after intercourse, or after menopause). Also some women suffer from prolonged menstrual cycles – when duration of cycle is more than 35 days.
• Heavy Bleeding: A woman soaks through her tampons or pads in less than two hours or has to use more than 5 tampons or pads in a single day to contain her bleeding.

Causes of Abnormal Periods

There are a number of factors that can bring about abnormal periods in a woman. Some of the significant factors are mentioned below:

• Stress and anxiety
• Lifestyle factors and changes (such as sudden weight gain or weight loss, illness, dieting, disruption of daily routine, travel, etc.)
• Birth control pills
• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Premature ovarian insufficiency
• Miscarriage
• Cervical, uterine, vaginal, or ovarian cancer
• Medications, such as anticoagulant drugs steroids or steroids

What to Do in Case of Abnormal Periods?

The best course of action to adopt is to consult a doctor. Depending on the underlying cause of the abnormality in the menstrual period, the doctor will be able to suggest appropriate remedies to address the problem and overcome it.