Audshule/Stocksy
The length of a menstrual cycle can vary throughout life due to a variety of factors.
In my case,periodsonly lasted a few days for decades.
Yet, I started noticing a change after I turned fortythey started getting shorter.
Audshule/Stocksy
However, “it is normal for menstrual cycle length to fluctuate a bit.”
I spoke to two OBGYNs to learn about the potential reasons for my periods getting shorter.
“This often becomes apparent in our 40s, especially in the years leading up to menopause.”
Hormonal Contraception
Hormonal contraception such asbirth control pillsand IUDs may lead to lighter or shorter periods.
This is because any hormonal change may affect your period.
Other types of medications or treatments such as steroids and chemotherapy can also lead to shorter periods.
“The period may return to its typical length once the medication is stopped,” Dr. Hack notes.
Too much stress creates an abundance of cortisol, which may disrupt how hormones typically function.
Exercise
Periods of time during which you exercise more intensely than usual may lead to shorter periods.
“Regular, intense exercise can also affecthormonesand lead to shorter menstrual periods,” Dr. Hack says.
“If someone is undergoing strenuous training, their period may disappear altogether.”
Rapid Weight Change
Rapidly losing or gainingweightcan affect the length of periods.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding typically leads to shorter periods.
They often return to their typical length three to six months after breastfeeding, although it may take longer.
PCOS
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition affecting hormonal balance.
It causes the body to develop cysts in the ovaries containing premature eggs.
It can affect menstrual cycles in several ways.
“Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also affect hormone levels and lead to shorter menstrual periods.
These periods may also be infrequent,” Dr. Hack says.
When it’s function is disrupted, it may lead to hormonal imbalance.
In this instance, ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone.
It may lead to early menopause.
POI may also lead to irregular or light periods, as well as them stopping entirely.
It occurs in about 1% of menstruators.
It may lead to shorter periods because of abnormal blood supply to the uterus.
Uterine scarring may also lead to infertility.
It is normal for menstrual cycles to fluctuate in length.
