Menstrual cycle disorders: What can I do if my cycle is irregular?
June 20, 2024 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Christine Widmann
Dear Doctor,
My name is Edith Schwaru and I am reaching out to you because I have been struggling with menstrual cycle disturbances for some time now. I am 35 years old and have always had a regular menstrual cycle of about 28 days. However, in the past few months, my cycle has changed significantly and is now very irregular. Sometimes it only lasts 21 days, other times 35 days, and the amount and duration of bleeding also varies greatly.
These changes are worrying me and are affecting me both physically and emotionally. I often feel tired and lethargic, suffer from mood swings, and also have issues with my skin. Additionally, I am planning to conceive in the near future and I am concerned if my cycle disturbances could have a negative impact on my fertility.
Therefore, my question to you is what I can do to treat my cycle disturbances and return to a regular cycle. Are there specific medications, hormone therapies, or lifestyle changes that could help me? What tests should I undergo to determine the cause of my cycle disturbances? And are there specific warning signs that I should watch out for that could indicate serious illnesses?
Thank you in advance for your support and advice.
Best regards,
Edith Schwaru
Dear Mrs. Schwaru,
Thank you for your detailed description of your situation. Menstrual cycle disorders can indeed be very distressing and have various causes. It is important that you consult a doctor to determine the exact cause of your symptoms and, if necessary, initiate appropriate treatment.
The changes in your menstrual cycle could have various reasons. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, diet, weight changes, as well as conditions such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), thyroid problems, or endometriosis can lead to cycle disturbances. To identify the exact cause, it is advisable to undergo various examinations.
Firstly, a detailed medical history is important to assess your symptoms more accurately. A gynecological examination, including ultrasound, can provide clues to possible conditions. Blood tests to check your hormone levels are also useful. Depending on the findings, further specific tests such as hormone analysis, thyroid examination, or laparoscopy may be necessary.
Depending on the cause of your cycle disorders, the treatment may vary. Hormonal contraception or hormone replacement therapy may be options in some cases of hormonal issues. Lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet, adequate exercise, and stress management, can also help normalize your cycle. Taking vitamins or supplements that support hormone balance may also be helpful.
It is important to regularly visit your doctor to monitor the progress of your cycle disorders and adjust the therapy if necessary. Pay attention to warning signs such as severe period pain, unusual bleeding, or lumps in the breast, which could indicate serious conditions.
I therefore recommend that you promptly schedule an appointment with a gynecologist to determine the cause of your cycle disorders and plan an individualized treatment. I wish you all the best and hope that you will soon have a regular cycle again and successfully achieve your planned pregnancy.
Best regards,
Christine Widmann
