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Writer's pictureDr. Karuturi Subrahmanyam

Irregular periods


Irregular periods are a common concern for many women, but the good news is that most of the time they are not a cause for concern. Irregular periods can refer to a variety of menstrual cycle irregularities, such as a longer or shorter cycle, skipped periods, or heavier or lighter bleeding. Here is what you need to know about irregular periods and what to do if you are experiencing them.


Causes of Irregular Periods:

  • Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances can cause irregular periods. This can happen when there is too much or too little of a certain hormone in the body.

  • Stress: Stress can affect the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle, leading to irregular periods.

  • Weight changes: Significant weight changes, whether it be weight gain or weight loss, can affect the menstrual cycle and cause irregular periods.

  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a condition that can cause hormonal imbalances and lead to irregular periods.

  • Thyroid disorders: Thyroid disorders can cause hormonal imbalances and lead to irregular periods.

  • Menopause: As women approach menopause, the menstrual cycle can become irregular and eventually stop altogether.

  • Viral infections: Irregular periods are very common in the recovery phase of fevers and viral infections.


Managing Irregular Periods:

  • Keep track of your menstrual cycle: Keep a menstrual cycle calendar to track your periods and any changes you notice.

  • Manage stress: Find ways to manage stress, such as practicing yoga or meditation.

  • Maintain a healthy weight: Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet.

  • Birth control: Birth control methods like the pill, patch, or IUD can help regulate the menstrual cycle.

  • Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy may be recommended if hormonal imbalances are causing irregular periods.

  • Treatment for underlying conditions: If an underlying medical condition like PCOS or a thyroid disorder is causing irregular periods, it is important to seek medical treatment.


If you are experiencing irregular periods, it is important to talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions and to determine the best course of treatment.


Natural Home Remedies for Irregular Periods


While irregular periods can have various underlying causes, there are some natural home remedies that may help regulate the menstrual cycle. Here are some remedies you can try:

  1. Cinnamon: Cinnamon has been shown to help regulate menstrual cycles in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and may help regulate periods for women without PCOS as well. Add a teaspoon of cinnamon powder to warm water or tea and drink it once a day.

  2. Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve menstrual cramps and regulate periods. Boil a piece of fresh ginger root in water, strain the liquid and drink it with honey.

  3. Fennel seeds: Fennel seeds contain anethole, a compound that can help regulate menstrual cycles. Chew a teaspoon of fennel seeds or make a tea with the seeds and drink it twice a day.

  4. Turmeric: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties that can help regulate periods. Mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of warm milk and drink it once a day.

  5. Papaya: Papaya is believed to stimulate estrogen production, which may help regulate menstrual cycles. Eat ripe papaya as a fruit or make a smoothie with papaya and other fruits.

  6. Aloe vera: Aloe vera can help regulate periods by balancing hormones. Drink aloe vera juice or add it to smoothies.

  7. Exercise: Regular exercise can help regulate menstrual cycles by reducing stress and promoting a healthy weight. Try low-impact exercises such as walking, yoga or swimming.


While these remedies may help regulate menstrual cycles, it is important to keep in mind that irregular periods can be caused by underlying medical conditions that require medical treatment. If you are experiencing irregular periods, it is important to talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions and determine the best course of treatment.

Dr. Karuturi Subrahmanyam, MD, FRCP (London), FACP (USA)

Internal Medicine Specialist


Kify Hospital

Danavaipeta

Rajahmundry

Phone : 85000 23456

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