For Ladies Only

I'm posting two blogs today, so that you fellas can still get something to read, just scroll up or down- but this particular post if for my female readers only... it's about... girl stuff. You have been warned!

Dear Suzy,

I know this may be a little out there to talk about in a public forum like your blog, but I have a serious question.  I’m almost 30 and I’ve never had a steady period cycle.  I know girls who hit it on the same day every month.  Mine moves around like crazy.  I’ve heard that constant exercise can be a cause of fluctuation, is that true?  Is there I way to get it regulated?

Irratically,

Aunt Flo

Dear Flo,

Lots of things can contribute to an irregular cycle; stress, changes in your exercise routine, sexual activity, proximity to other women, diet, extreme weight loss, extreme weight gain, and genetics, to name a few. Some people just have erratic cycles , but that can be a hassle. Most of the time when they talk about exercise negatively impacting your period, though, we're talking about extreme exercise (to a point of potentially doing as much harm as good) that usually causes Amenorrhea, or a loss of menstrual cycle altogether. This phenomenon can also occur as a result of extreme dieting/ weight loss, and is a symptom of bigger problems. 

When it comes down to it, if you have any abnormalities in your cycle for more than 4 or 5 months, consult your gynecologist. They may prescribe you a pill that will help regulate your hormones with low doses of common hormones such as estrogen, but ask a lot of questions; I actually don't know if there is a pill option that will regulate your cycle that is not birth control, so if that poses a moral issue for you, be sure you are fully informed about your options

The best practical advice I can give you other than to see a qualified doctor is this: As you can see from my list above, our period is most often affected by extreme changes in lifestyle, and when it changes substantially, this may be as a result of some unhealthy habits. A regular, normal cycle is most common in a woman who is healthy. The closer you can get to your own body's ideal weight and fat distribution, the more regularly you can exercise without overdoing it, the lower your stress level, the healthier (and iron-rich) your diet, the calmer your schedule... All these things are practical things that you have control over that can help regulate and significantly improve your periods. If all these things are pretty well in line and you're still having problems, definitely see a doctor! This may mean something more serious could be wrong.