As women pass through perimenopause and menopause, irregular periods are common. In fact, the mantra for this time of life could be “expect the unexpected,” along with “be prepared.” What’s the story about irregular periods and what can we do about them?

What are irregular periods?

Irregular periods are usually defined as when the length of time between periods become shorter or longer than the usual 28 days, and the bleeding may be light to heavy. That is, you may get your period after 21 days one month and after 30 days the next. You may even skip a month. It’s best to keep sanitary supplies within easy reach when irregular periods are happening!

What’s the relationship between irregular periods and menopause?

The level of estrogen in your body is the main determining factor when talking about the menstrual cycle. Because estrogen (and testosterone) levels rise and fall erratically during perimenopause and into menopause, you can experience irregular periods along with many other symptoms of this transitional time of life. Fortunately you can take steps to help alleviate your discomfort and frustration with the hormonal changes.

Read about heavy periods due to hormone imbalance

Generally, if you experience persistent changes in your period that lasts seven days or longer, you are probably in early perimenopause. If you begin to have your period every 60 days or so, you are probably in late perimenopause.

How can you manage irregular periods naturally?

An irregular period is just one way your body responds to the declining levels of estrogen and testosterone. Irregular periods can be life-altering and highly disruptive, especially if you are out in the work force and need to make adjustments to your activities.

To help ease your discomfort and uncertainty, here are a few suggestions on how to manage irregular periods naturally using lifestyle changes as well as herbal and nutritional supplements.

Say yes to yoga. You may pose your way to more regular menstruation. In a study of 126 women, participating in 35 to 40 minutes of yoga five days a week for six months reduced hormone levels associated with irregular periods.

Keep your weight healthy. Overweight women are more likely to have irregular periods and experience heavier bleeding than their lighter peers. That’s because fat cells have an impact on insulin and hormones, which makes it even more critical for overweight women to work toward a healthy weight.

Go ginger. Although there’s no scientific evidence that ginger can improve irregular periods, some women have experienced a reduction in blood flow when using ginger.

Shake on the cinnamon. This spice may help reduce menstrual bleeding and pain, according to some research. In another study, cinnamon helped regulate the menstrual cycles of women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

Read about treating PCOS naturally

Drink apple cider vinegar. Just one-half ounce of apple cider vinegar taken daily may restore ovulatory menstruation, at least in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. The research involved only a few women, so much more investigation is needed.

Do the D. Research indicates that getting a sufficient amount of vitamin D can help with irregular periods. In a 2015 study, low levels of the vitamin were associated with irregular menstrual cycles, leading the authors to conclude that “Vitamin D may play a role in regulating ovulatory function.”

when you should see your doctor

For the majority of women, irregular periods are not a medical concern. However, you should contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible if you experience heavy bleeding (you need to change your sanitary pad or tampon every hour or two for two or more hours). Any bleeding between periods also should be checked by your doctor.

bottom line

For the majority of women, irregular periods are not a medical concern. However, you should contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible if you experience heavy bleeding (you need to change your sanitary pad or tampon every hour or two for two or more hours). Any bleeding between periods also should be checked by your doctor.