Irregular periods are a classic symptom ofPCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome.
Sometimes, periods even stop.
That said, some people with PCOS still have regular periods.
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And it’s also possible that any irregularities in your menstrual cycle could be due to something else entirely.
How Are Irregular Periods Defined?
Most people with PCOS have absent periods or oligoovulation.
Oligoovulation is when ovulation occurs infrequently or irregularly.
A person with oligoovulation may have irregular periods or a very long cycle of more than 50 days.
It is normal to ovulate or release a mature egg once a month, about halfway through your cycle.
Oligoovulation can make it difficult to track your fertile days if you’retrying to conceive.
Not everyone with PCOS experiences absent or irregular cycles.
Some have a regular monthly cycle.
Heavy bleeding can cause these people to become anemic or have low iron levels.
Medically speaking, hypothalamic amenorrhea, pregnancy, and other hormonal conditions can all cause irregular or absent periods.
Some healthcare providers recommend oral contraceptives to balance out hormones and create a regular cycle.
Although not indicated for this reason, Metformin can also help some people regulate their cycles.
Further diagnostic testing and/or medical intervention may be necessary.
Summary
People with PCOS often experience irregular periods.
If you have PCOS, you might have unpredictable periods or a cycle that is unusually long.
PCOS isn’t the only cause of irregular periods.
You may also have irregular periods if you’ve recently started menstruating or are approaching menopause.
Certain other medical conditions can also cause irregular periods.
Treatment for PCOS-related irregular periods varies, though weight loss and other lifestyle changes can help.
Your healthcare provider can help you decide if other treatments, like medication, are right for you.
American Academy of Family Physicians.Natural Family Planning.
Spritzer PM.Polycystic ovary syndrome: reviewing diagnosis and management of metabolic disturbances.Arq Bras Endocrinol Metabol.
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