Irregular Menstrual Period

A normal menstrual period lasts from 2 to 7 days. The normal cycle patterns can range from 21 to 35 days. When bleeding occurs that is not part of the regular cycle; periods are longer or heavier than normal; occurs between periods; time between periods is longer than normal; or there is an absence of periods, this is called abnormal or irregular uterine bleeding. There are various causes of abnormal bleeding, but the most common is a hormone imbalance. At both ends of the menstrual life of a woman, periods may be irregular. Reasons for abnormal periods can be both normal and abnormal. The most normal reason is pregnancy. Hormone imbalance (not enough or too much of certain hormones) can also be a common reason. This can occur as a result of weight loss or gain; heavy exercise; stress; illness; or certain medications.


Root Causes:

• Stress

• New cycle , that is the irregularity experienced by some young girls at the onset of the periods. Their cycle can be irregular for months or years whilst it is establishing itself.

• Dietary problems , e.g. anorexia, bulimia or simply poor diet

• Too much exercise

• Drugs - prescription and recreational

• Break in routine

• Thoughts and emotions

• Sexual activity - especially when it is a new occurrence

• Anxiety about pregnancy

• Illness or physiological imbalance e.g. thyroid conditions
  

Herbs which are useful :

Ashoka:

The bark (contains tannin, catechol, sterol and organic calcium compounds) of the tree is effective for excessive blood loss during menstruation due to the presence of uterine fibroids, leucorrhoea and other causes. It is said to have a stimulating effect on the endometrium that is, the mucuous membrane lining the uterus and on the ovarian tissues. It can also taken as a decoction.

Chandan:



The wood ground up with water into paste is commonly applied to local inflammation and skin diseases, to allay heat and pruritus. It is popularly used to treat urethral haemorrhage and kidney afflictions.

Lodhra: 

Its decoction is used in skin diseases, swelling, bleeding wounds and ulcers. It also strengthens the gums.

Kamal Phool: 



It is particularly useful in raktapitta - bleeding disorders. Decoction of leaves and sandalwood or root-powder or seed-powder is useful for abnormal / irregular bleeding .

Kitchen Remedies to correct Irregular Menstruation

Diet :

Diet is very important. If you eat lots of fast foods you are not giving your body the nourishment it needs. If you eat sporadically, miss meals and diet constantly - you essentially send your body into survival mode, it thinks it is starving and shuts down unnecessary systems. A body that thinks it is starving will not cycle regularly - having a cycle that is healthy enough to support new life is secondary.

Life Style :

You should lead an active, pious and high moral life, shouldn't get agitated, keep happy, avoid excessive coitus. Avoid strenuous and inverted postures. Vddiyanabandha and nauli is contraindicated during menstruation.


Ayurvedic supplements:

Sundari Kalp Forte
Ashokarishta
Rajaprabartini Bati

Yoga to cure Irregular Menstrual Period: 

Cobra (Bhujanga Asana)
The Shoulder Stand (Sarvang Asana)
The Half Wheel (Ardha Chakrasan)