Causes of Abnormal Menstrual Cycles

The normal female menstrual cycle lasts an average of 28 days, although they can be as short as 21 days and last as long as 35 days. Women should consult their physicians if their menstrual cycle becomes abnormal, which can consist of any of the following factors: changes from her normal cycle in duration, lasting longer than seven days, very heavy bleeding, or spotting between cycles. There are several causes for abnormal menstrual cycles.

Pregnancy

• Although bleeding may occur during pregnancy, being pregnant will cause you to stop having menstrual cycles.

Hormone Imbalance

• Hormonal imbalances can cause abnormal cycles, particularly if they inhibit ovulation, which is evident in a condition called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Menopause Onset

• Menopause is the cessation of menstruation. While this usually occurs to women in their 50s, its onset (known as menopause transition) can occur in the 40s, which can make the menstrual cycle irregular.

Body Weight

• Low body weight or high levels of stress can contribute to irregular cycles.

Thyroid Hormones

• An underactive thyroid gland can make menstrual cycles irregular.

Endometriosis

• Endometriosis or growths within the uterine walls can contribute to abnormal menstrual cycles.

Cancer

• Cancer can cause occasionally cause abnormal bleeding, but it is not a major cause of abnormal cycles.