Causes of irregular periods, and why they are common in your 40s and 50s

Menstrual irregularities can have a variety of causes, including pregnancy, hormonal imbalances, infections, diseases, trauma, and certain medications (Image: Canva)

As you get older, your body goes through many changes, and for women, one of the most noticeable changes is in their menstrual cycle. It's common to experience irregular periods during your 40s and 50s, but it can be confusing if you're not sure what’s causing it.

According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), menstrual irregularities are quite common during the transition to menopause, which usually starts in your 40s or early 50s. During this period, known as perimenopause, your body starts to produce less estrogen, which can cause your periods to become unpredictable. However, irregular periods can also be caused by other factors, such as hormonal imbalances, stress, or certain health conditions.

Menstrual irregularities can have a variety of causes, including pregnancy, hormonal imbalances, infections, diseases, trauma, and certain medications. If your periods become irregular, it's important to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues.

Here are some possible causes of irregular periods:

Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI)

POI happens when your ovaries stop working properly before age 40. It can cause irregular periods or even stop your periods entirely. This condition is less common but can be caused by genetics, autoimmune diseases, or other health issues.

Eating disorders

Severe eating disorders can disrupt your hormone levels and affect your menstrual cycle. Both anorexia and bulimia can lead to a drop in body fat and cause periods to become irregular or stop altogether.

Excessive exercise

Over-exercising, especially without proper nutrition, can lead to hormone imbalances that affect your menstrual cycle. This is more common in athletes who push their bodies too hard.

Thyroid dysfunction

The thyroid gland helps regulate your metabolism, and when it's not functioning properly, it can affect your menstrual cycle. Both hyperthyroidism (too much thyroid hormone) and hypothyroidism (too little thyroid hormone) can cause irregular periods.

Increased levels of the hormone prolactin

Prolactin is the hormone that helps the body produce milk after childbirth. If your prolactin levels are too high, it can interfere with your menstrual cycle and cause irregular periods.

Uncontrolled diabetes

High blood sugar levels from uncontrolled diabetes can affect your hormone balance and lead to irregular periods. Proper management of diabetes can help regulate your cycle.

Cushing's syndrome

Cushing's syndrome happens when your body is exposed to high levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. This condition can affect your menstrual cycle and lead to irregular periods.

Late-onset congenital adrenal hyperplasia

This is a rare condition where the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol and aldosterone, leading to hormone imbalances that can affect your period.

Hormonal birth control

Hormonal birth control can affect your menstrual cycle in different ways. For some women, it can cause periods to become lighter, irregular, or stop entirely.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.