Especially in recent times, the pandemic process in which we are all involved, and the accompanying anxiety and stress can be a trigger for some problems. Stating that the trauma or stress experienced also affects the menstrual cycle by affecting the production of hormones that control the menstrual cycle in the upper centers of the brain, Yeditepe University Kozyatağı Hospital Gynecology and Obstetrics Specialist Prof. Dr. Rukset Attar said that this problem can be observed among 5-35 percent of women. Dr. Attar reminded us that if the underlying cause is not identified and treated, the problem may become chronic.
Menstrual irregularity, which can occur for different reasons in every woman of reproductive age, is important in terms of stress on the woman as well as indicating an underlying disease. Prof. Dr. Rukset Attar reminded us that a menstrual cycle is 28 days on average and this period can be 7 days shorter or 7 days longer. “Menstruation, intermediate bleeding, more or less menstrual bleeding, lasting more than 7 days, bleeding after intercourse or menstrual incontinence are defined as menstrual irregularity for periods shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days.

When Does It Indicate A Problem?

Stating that the frequency of menstrual irregularity may vary according to societies and age, Yeditepe University Kozyatağı Hospital Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist Prof. Dr. Rukset Attar explained that, therefore, it may not always point to an underlying problem. For instance, irregularity in menstruation is more common in the first and last years of the period between the first menstruation and the menopause period, which we call the reproductive age. However, stress, rapid weight gain, and loss, excessive exercise, use of birth control pills, and intrauterine tools can cause menstrual irregularity problems. Prof. Dr. Rukset Attar gave the following information about the underlying causes: Hemorrhage and coagulation disorders, systemic diseases, infections, endometriosis, adenomyosis, endocrine diseases, hormonal disorders, polycystic ovary, genetic diseases, ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, and miscarriage threat, (endometrial polyps or fibroids, intrauterine endometrium) hyperplasia of the uterus, some types of fibroids in the uterine wall, brain tumors, especially uterine (endometrial) cancer, ovarian cyst/tumor/cancer, intrauterine and cervical cancer. Therefore, such bleeding should definitely be consulted by a doctor."

Stress Affects Hormone Production

Underlining that the trauma or stress experienced affects the production of hormones that control the menstrual cycle in the upper centers of the brain, Prof. Dr. Rukset Attar gave the following information: “The COVID-19 pandemic has created very serious stress and anxiety. This intense stress and anxiety can cause menstrual irregularities such as the inability to menstruate, delayed menstruation, frequent menstruation, and intermittent bleeding. During this period, there was a slight increase in menstrual irregularity complaints.”

Prof. Dr. Rukset Attar said that if a person with menstrual irregularity does not have any other underlying cause as a result of the examination. Only if it is due to stress and there is no anemia, it can be waited for a while without giving treatment. Dr. Attar also explained that this problem may pass spontaneously over time: “When stress-related menstrual irregularities disappear, they may improve spontaneously. Rapid weight gain and loss and menstrual irregularities due to excessive exercise may also improve spontaneously. Irregularities due to the birth control pill are expected to return to normal on their own or when the drug is discontinued. ” However, regardless of the underlying problem, a doctor must be consulted. Prof. Dr. Rukset Attar: “After the examination, the underlying cause is determined and treatment for the cause is required. If the patient has anemia, this problem should also be treated.”

Symptoms of 30-40 Infertile Patients

Reminding that reproductive health may also be affected in cases where menstrual irregularity is caused by a problem affecting fertilization, which is defined as ovulation, Yeditepe University Hospitals Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist Prof. Dr. Rukset Attar: “In addition, people with menstrual irregularities can't determine the day of ovulation with the calendar method at home. Drawing attention to the fact that 30-40 percent of infertile patients may have menstrual irregularities, Prof. Dr. Rukset Attar gave the following information: “The pathology that causes menstrual irregularity can become chronic if not treated. It has been reported that this problem has become chronic in 10-35 percent of women.”

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