Learn AI Health Q&A Women’s Health

What are the common causes of irregular menstruation?

Asked by:Frances

Asked on:Apr 17, 2026 08:28 AM

Answers:1 Views:337
  • Louise Louise

    Apr 17, 2026

    Irregular menstruation may be caused by endocrine disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome, uterine fibroids, thyroid dysfunction, excessive mental stress, etc. Irregular menstruation usually manifests as cycle disorders, abnormal menstrual flow, or accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain, and intervention needs to be combined with the specific cause.

    1.Endocrine disorders

    Hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis dysfunction is a common cause and may be related to excessive dieting, obesity or staying up late. The menstrual cycle is shortened or prolonged, and the menstrual flow is sometimes heavy and sometimes light. It can be diagnosed through six tests of sex hormones. Follow the doctor's instructions and use progesterone capsules, estradiol valerate tablets and other drugs to regulate it. At the same time, you need to maintain a regular schedule.

    2.Polycystic ovary syndrome

    Hyperandrogenemia and insulin resistance lead to follicular development disorders, common body hair increase, acne and oligomenorrhea. Ultrasound showed polycystic changes in the ovaries, which required long-term use of ethinyl estradiol and cyproterone tablets to regulate the cycle, and metformin sustained-release tablets to improve metabolic abnormalities.

    3. Uterine fibroids

    Intramural or submucosal fibroids may compress the uterine cavity, causing prolonged menstruation, increased menstrual flow, and even anemia. Ultrasound can determine the location and size of fibroids. Laparoscopic myomectomy is recommended for fibroids larger than 5 cm. For smaller fibroids, mifepristone tablets can be used to control their growth.

    4. Abnormal thyroid function

    Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism will affect the synthesis of sex hormones. Hyperthyroidism may lead to oligomenorrhea, while hypothyroidism often causes increased menstrual flow. The level of thyroid stimulating hormone needs to be tested. Patients with hyperthyroidism should take methimazole tablets, and those with hypothyroidism should supplement with levothyroxine sodium tablets.

    5. Excessive mental pressure

    Long-term anxiety and stress can inhibit the release of gonadotropins, causing temporary amenorrhea or cycle disorders. Stress can be relieved through mindfulness training, psychological counseling, and conditioning with motherwort granules. Generally, menstruation can resume naturally after the stress is relieved.

    It is recommended to record menstrual cycle changes and avoid excessive dieting or strenuous exercise. You can eat iron-supplementing foods such as red beans and red dates in moderation every day, and be careful to keep your abdomen warm during menstruation. If abnormal menstruation lasts for more than 3 months or is accompanied by severe anemia or severe abdominal pain, you need to see a gynecologist promptly for ultrasound and hormone examination, and avoid taking hormone drugs by yourself.