Abnormal Menstruation: Types, Causes & Treatment

Periods are a normal and undetachable part of women's lives. They come and go monthly, and for most women, they're not a problem. However, some women don't have regular periods or experience other symptoms during their menstrual cycle that make them worry about the health of their reproductive organs or overall well-being. This article explores what types of abnormal menstruation exist and what causes them, as well as tips on how to treat irregular periods - including when you should seek medical attention.

Dr Disha Sridhar

I am a Gynaecologist Obstetrician ( MD, DNB OBGYN) with an emphasis on INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE.

Abnormal menstruation (also known as irregular periods), is any type of period that does not follow the normal pattern.

The most common symptoms include:

• Irregular menstrual cycle, which means having a variation in your menstrual cycle from one month to another. For example, if you normally have a 28-day cycle, and this month it was 32 days long instead.
• Heavy or light bleeding during menstruation. This can occur if you experience a sudden change in blood flow (e.g., after childbirth) or when bleeding more than usual for no apparent reason at all! It's important to note here that jet-black discharge may indicate something else entirely, such as an infection, so try contacting your doctor right away if this happens.
• Longer than usual duration between periods. some women have abnormal period cycles lasting up to six weeks without needing any intervention, while others might go through what's called "luteal phase defect" where ovulation fails due to low levels of progesterone—this condition can result in extremely irregular periods which are painful too.

Irregular menstruation is often referred to as "menstrual irregularities" or "irregular menstrual cycles." This condition is characterized by variations in the length of menstrual cycles, the amount of blood flow, or the duration of menstrual periods. Irregular menstruation may involve cycles that are shorter or longer than the typical 28 days, as well as unpredictable patterns in the occurrence of menstruation.

Menstruation Cycle Phases

• Follicular Phase (Days 1-14): This phase starts on the first day of your period. Under the influence of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), several follicles begin to mature in the ovaries. Typically one dominant follicle will continue to grow and release an egg. Estrogen levels rise during this phase.
• Ovulation (Day 14): The mature egg is released from the dominant follicle. This usually occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle, but can vary from woman to woman.
• Luteal Phase (Days 15-28): After ovulation, the remaining follicle turns into a structure called the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone. Progesterone prepares the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg. If fertilization does not occur, progesterone and estrogen levels drop, the lining of the uterus breaks down, and menstruation begins again.
• Menstruation (Days 1-5): The uterine lining sheds through the vagina. Bleeding typically lasts around 5 days. This marks the beginning of a new cycle.

The length of each phase and the entire cycle can vary between women. Stress, diet, exercise and other factors can impact the menstrual cycle. On average, a woman has her period every 28 days, but cycles between 21-35 days are still considered normal.

Types of Abnormal Menstruation or Period

Enroll for Guide To Periods Program

Schedule your video consultation toady ! A happier, healthier you is a click away. !

Symptoms of Abnormal Periods

There are several symptoms that can indicate an abnormal period, such as heavy bleeding, irregular menstrual cycle, bleeding between periods, random spotting, and painful periods (pain may be sharp and localized to the lower abdomen or pelvic area, but it may also radiate through the back and legs). The details are followed below:

1. Irregular Periods

Irregular periods are a common occurrence and not necessarily cause for alarm. However, if you have irregular periods and are concerned about them, it's important to be aware of the signs that might indicate a serious condition. If you have any of these symptoms, it's best to see your doctor:

• Painful cramps
• Excessive bleeding (more than normal)
• Periods lasting longer than seven days

3. Heavy or Painful Periods

• Heavy Bleeding: This can include a heavy flow of blood, clots, and/or spotting between periods.
• Painful Periods: Periods that are painful to the touch or when you're walking around. Pain during sex is also a common symptom of abnormal periods.
• Abdominal Pain: or backache (menstrual cramps). Backaches are common during your period and usually only occur for a few days each month; however, if your pain lasts longer than expected or gets worse over time, it could be an indication that something is wrong with your reproductive system (uterus).
• Leg Pain: or cramps in the thighs and buttocks area may also indicate an underlying health condition such as endometriosis – inflammation of the tissue lining the uterus – adenomyosis –which occurs when endometrial tissue grows into other parts of a woman's uterus – fibroids - benign tumors), polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

How are Irregular Menstrual Periods Diagnosed?

When it comes to diagnosing irregular menstrual periods, you may need to undergo a pelvic exam and/or blood tests.

• Pelvic Exam: A pelvic exam is performed by your doctor or a gynaecologist (a doctor who specializes in female health issues). During the exam, the doctor will look for signs that indicate something might be wrong with your reproductive organs. She/he will also feel around for lumps or growths in your uterus and ovaries. If they find anything unusual during the exam, they might order additional tests to check for cancerous tumours and other problems associated with abnormal menstrual cycles.
• Blood Tests: Your doctor may order a blood test or urine test to determine whether there's an imbalance of hormones causing your periods not to occur regularly—known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). This condition can cause irregular menstruation along with other symptoms like excess hair growth on the face and chest area, acne breakouts, headaches, depression, anxiety disorders, oily skin, and dandruff.

What are the Treatment Options for Irregular Menstrual?

• Treatment depends on the cause of an abnormal period.
• Non-hormonal birth control
• Hormonal birth control
• Pelvic floor exercises
• Oral contraceptives
• Surgical removal of polyps or uterine fibroids
• Lifestyle changes (such as eating, sleeping, and exercising)

You may need to try a few different treatment options before you find one that works for you. If your irregular periods are caused by other health issues, like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), your doctor may prescribe medications to treat that condition first. Never follow self-medication without consulting your doctor. It may worsen your condition.

When Should You Seek Medical Attention for Abnormal Menstruation?

You must see your doctor if you have a fever, severe pain, or heavy bleeding. If you have severe cramps lasting more than 12 hours with little or no relief from over-the-counter pain medications, this may be another sign of an underlying health condition.

If your period suddenly starts lasting longer than usual, becomes abnormally heavy, or if you experience sudden mood swings or weight gain during your period, that too could mean something isn't right with your body. Many women have experienced some form of an abnormal period. It's best to consult a doctor for expert advice and treatment.

Originally published August 12, 2022

Updated on Jan 9, 2023