Causes of Periods, irregular

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The pattern of a womanâ€™s menstrual cycle can be disturbed by physical or emotional upsets, stress or changing the method of contraception. An IUD or contraceptive pill may cause spotting between periods and an IUD can cause heavy bleeding.

A disturbance in the balance of oestrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle is a common cause of irregular periods. Hormone imbalance can occur as a result of weight loss or gain, heavy exercise, stress or illness.

Irregular bleeding is normal and common for a few years after puberty and before the menopause when there may be a hormone imbalance. Irregularity in bleeding can also be due to unsuspected pregnancy, early miscarriage or disorders of the uterus or ovaries.

A thyroid disorder is another possible cause or irregular periods. Any bleeding that occurs between periods, very rarely indicates cancer of the cervix or uterus.

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