Menstrual cycles vary with women. However, a delay of over 5 days in a woman’s normal menstrual cycle is called an ‘irregular cycle’. In case no menstrual cycle occurs during a span of six weeks or more, it means that the period has been missed.
Some of the factors that may lead to an irregular menstrual cycle are:
i. Hormonal imbalance
ii. Natural development of the body
iii. Stress
iv. Weight gain
v. Eating disorders
vi. Medication
Hormonal imbalance
In case the periods are highly irregular, it could be due to an imbalance in the hormones. A doctor should be consulted, who after examining the ovaries and blood tests, will be able to determine if hormonal imbalance is the cause.
Natural development of the body
The natural course of development in a woman’s body may cause periods to become irregular. Even then, it is important to consult a doctor to rule out any other causes of irregular periods.
Stress
Stress has an adverse mental and physical effect on a woman’s body. It may cause the menstrual cycle to become irregular.
Weight gain or loss
Obesity is one of the most common causes of irregular periods. Intense weight loss may also hamper the normal cycle of periods.
Eating disorders
Those women who suffer from anorexia or bulimia may have irregular periods.
Medication
Women subscribing to hormonal birth control methods may experience irregular periods. Those who use illicit drugs may also have the same problem.