As a young person, you’re often taught the basics of yourmenstrual cycleand what to expect.
Meet the Experts
Why Did I Get My Period Twice This Month?
“The uterus may bleed when the fertilized egg attaches,” Ordeberg explains.
Iuliia Versta / Stocksy
However, bleeding during pregnancy does not always mean miscarriage.
Bleeding can be common in early pregnancy and typically impacts about one-fifth of pregnant people in their first trimester.
Check the package insert, or check in with your OBG/GYN if needed, for further instructions.
“Spotting is also common during the first three months of using hormonal IUDs.”
WithPCOS, ovaries produce abnormally high levels of androgens, which cause the reproductive hormones to become imbalanced.
This, in turn, causes irregular menstrual cycles.
Thyroid Dysfunction
Thyroid glands produce hormones and are therefore important for regulating the menstrual cycle.
Hypothyroidism can be treated with medicine that helps balance the hormones your body needs to work normally.
Cervical Polyp
Cervical polyps are abnormal growths in the cervix.
These growths are typically seen during the reproductive years.
Consult your OB/GYN for the next steps.
Uterine Polyps
Uterine polyps are growths that occur in the inner lining of the uterus.
While they are typically (but not always) noncancerous, they can cause problems with menstruation and fertility.
Medication-Induced
Medication-induced vaginal bleeding can go beyond birth control.
Studies have uncovered vaginal bleeding as a side effect of medications such as blood thinners.
Both forms of uterine cancer can cause heavier periods and bleeding between periods.
The majority of uterine cancers are diagnosed early due to the presence of abnormal uterine bleeding.
“Most OB-GYNs would recommend an endometrial biopsy to rule out endometrial cancer,” she says.
Excessive Stress
Excessive stress often will have negative effects on the mind and body.
The abnormalities typically stem from cortisol, the hormone your body makes when youre under stress.
Uterine Fibroids
Often confused with uterine polyps, uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus.
Bleeding between periods can often be mistaken as a “second period.”
Like polyps, fibroids can be asymptomatic but often cause discomfort and pressure symptoms.
Many women with fibroids will experience abnormal uterine bleeding as well as iron-deficiency anemia.
The Takeaway
As it turns out, abnormal periods aren’t as uncommon as you think.
Normal menstruation (Monthly period): menstrual cycle & symptoms.
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