Irregular cycle: Discover 7 causes here!

An irregular cycle can be very frustrating, especially when you want to keep track of your period or when you count on regularity. But don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many women experience an irregular cycle at some point in their lives. At Beppy, we understand how annoying this can be, which is why we want to help you better understand the possible causes of an irregular cycle. In this blog, we discuss seven common causes of an irregular cycle and provide tips on how to bring your cycle back into balance.

7 causes of an irregular cycle

1. Hormonal fluctuations
   The most common cause of an irregular cycle is hormonal fluctuations. Your menstrual cycle is regulated by different hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone. When the balance between these hormones becomes disrupted, your cycle can become irregular. This can happen, for example, during puberty, menopause or due to conditions such as PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome).

2. Stress
   Did you know that stress can have a big impact on your menstrual cycle? When you experience a lot of stress, your body produces more of the hormone cortisol. This hormone can interfere with the production of estrogen and progesterone, which can lead to an irregular cycle. So it is important to avoid stress as much as possible, not only for your mental health, but also for your hormonal balance.

3. Changes in weight
   Gaining or losing weight quickly can also affect your menstrual cycle. Fat tissue produces estrogen, so changes in your fat percentage can lead to an imbalance in your hormone levels. This, in turn, can result in an irregular cycle. Whether you are trying to lose or gain weight, it is important to do so in a healthy way to keep your hormones balanced.

4. Excessive exercise
   While regular exercise is good for your health, too much exercise can actually backfire. Excessive exercise can lead to a drop in your estrogen levels, which can cause your cycle to become irregular or even impossible. Therefore, it is important to find a good balance between exercise and rest.

5. Medication
   Certain medications, such as birth control pills or medications for epilepsy, can affect your menstrual cycle. This is because they act on your hormonal balance. If you think your medication use is the cause of your irregular cycle, it is wise to discuss this with your doctor.

7. Thyroid disorders
   The thyroid plays a crucial role in the regulation of your metabolism and hormones. If your thyroid works too slow or too fast, it can affect your menstrual cycle. Symptoms of a thyroid disorder can range from fatigue and weight changes to an irregular cycle. If you think your thyroid may be the cause, consult your doctor for further investigation.
8. Transition
   If you are in menopause, it is perfectly normal to experience an irregular cycle. Menopause is a period when your hormone levels fluctuate considerably, which can lead to changes in your menstrual pattern. This is a natural process, but if you have symptoms, consider talking to a doctor.

What can you do when you have an irregular cycle?

Now that you know more about the possible causes of an irregular cycle, you may be wondering what you can do to improve it. Here are some tips:

• Keep a menstrual diary: One of the first steps you can take to gain insight into your menstrual cycle is to keep a menstrual diary. By making regular notes about the length of your cycle, the intensity of your bleeding, and any associated symptoms (such as cramps, fatigue or mood swings), you’ll get a better handle on what’s happening in your body. This can help you spot patterns, even if your cycle seems irregular. These days, there are also plenty of apps that can help you keep track of your cycle.
• Reduce stress: Stress is one of the most common causes of an irregular cycle. When you are under prolonged stress, your body produces more cortisol, a stress hormone that can affect the production of other hormones, including those that regulate your menstrual cycle. For example, too much cortisol can interfere with the release of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, leading to irregular or missed periods. Reduce stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or mindfulness, as well as by adjusting your daily routine. Even something as simple as a walk in nature or taking short breaks throughout the day can help lower your stress levels and rebalance your hormones. Work on it!
• Eat healthy and varied foods: You are what you eat, food has a lot of influence on your hormones and therefore on your menstrual cycle. A balanced diet rich in fiber, healthy fats, protein, and complex carbohydrates helps your body function optimally. Specific nutrients like iron, magnesium, and vitamins like B6 and D play an important role in the regulation of your hormones and can help you have a more predictable cycle. Some foods even have a direct impact on your hormonal balance. For example, healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts and oily fish, can contribute to the production of estrogen and progesterone. On the other hand, highly processed foods high in sugars and trans fats can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to irregularities in your cycle. Try to limit these types of foods!
• Exercise in moderation: Physical activity is important for good health and can help regulate your menstrual cycle. Regular exercise stimulates circulation and helps reduce stress. But exercising too much or too intensely can have just the opposite effect and disrupt your cycle. Excessive exercise, especially if coupled with an excessively low fat percentage or drastic weight loss, can cause your body to stop releasing estrogen, causing your period to become irregular or even absent altogether. This phenomenon is common in elite athletes, but it can also occur in women who exercise intensively without getting enough nutrients. So pay close attention to this!
• Consult a doctor: If you are concerned about your menstrual cycle, or if you find that your cycle remains irregular for a long time, it is wise to consult a doctor. There may be several medical causes for an irregular cycle. A doctor can help you find the underlying cause and work with you to develop a plan to bring your cycle back into balance.

Make your menstrual period more comfortable with Beppy

To make your menstrual period more enjoyable, we offer products such as the Beppy Soft Tampons, which are specially designed to be worn comfortably and invisibly, even during irregular cycles. These tampons are ideal for women who are active and don’t want the hassle of strings. We also have Beppy Cup, a reusable menstrual cup that provides long-lasting protection and a comfortable feeling. Whether you suffer from an irregular cycle or not, our products are here to make your life easier and more comfortable.

Do you have questions about our products? Please feel free to contact us!