Irregular Periods: Simple Home Remedies to Get Periods Naturally

Understanding Irregular Periods

A regular menstrual cycle is anywhere between 21 to 35 days. Irregular periods refer to the cycle that varies in length, flow or frequency. An irregular period might mean experiencing cycles that are shorter or longer than this range, having missed periods, or unpredictable spotting.

क्या हैं Irregular Periods?

an irregular period can mean that your cycle starts early or late every month or you miss your periods. The length of your cycle may vary a lot from month to month. Maybe your period lasts longer than usual or is lighter or heavier than it usually is.

Common Causes of Irregular Periods

There could be multiple causes of irregular periods including but not limited to hormonal imbalance, stress, excessive exercise, underlying health conditions like PCOS, thyroid etc. Some medication might also cause irregular periods.

Hormonal Imbalance

Hormones like estrogen and progesterone regulate the menstrual cycle. An increase or decrease in these hormone levels may cause irregular periods. A change in these hormone levels can be caused by puberty, menopause, certain medication or lifestyle choices.

Stress and Lifestyle Factors

Stress, anxiety and depression can be huge disruptors and affect hormonal levels which results in irregular periods. High levels of cortisol the stress hormone, can throw off the whole system. Choices like lack of sleep and too much caffeine can have a huge impact on cortisol levels and add up to irregular periods.

Weight Fluctuations (Overweight/Underweight)

Sudden or extreme changes in your weight can cause hormonal changes that affect your periods. Being significantly overweight or underweight can both cause you to miss a period.

Excessive Exercise

While working out works wonders for your health, over-doing it can cause problems. In this case, intense cardio especially can cause your body to stop producing certain hormones needed for ovulation.

Underlying Health Conditions (e.g., PCOS, Thyroid issues)

कभी-कभी irregular periods can be a sign of underlying health conditions like PCOS, Thyroid and other medical problems that cause hormonal changes.

Why Addressing Irregular Periods is Important

Some might feel inclined towards letting the problem of irregular periods solve itself, but if left unattended it can lead to bigger issues.

Impact on Fertility and Conception

Regular periods are an indication that your body is healthy and ovulating. Irregular periods mean ovulation problems which make it hard for you to conceive. Irregularity in your cycle also makes it harder for you to accurately track your fertile window which can complicate the process of planning a pregnancy.

Physical and Emotional Well-being

Irregular periods can be frustrating, confusing, and even scary. They can affect your emotional health and just generally be a pain to deal with. You may also experience increased stress, anxiety and other related issues.

Long-term Health Concerns

Irregular periods can be a symptom of underlying conditions like PCOS, Thyroid, Pelvic Inflammatory disease (PID), etc. If left unaddressed it may lead to long term health conditions like infertility, cardiovascular issues and diabetes

Simple Home Remedies to Get Periods Naturally

Maintain a Balanced Diet

 Include plenty of nutrient rich foods like fruits, green leafy vegetables, red vegetables, etc. Eat the rainbow! try to balance your diet with lean proteins and healthy fats. Nutrients like iron, calcium and vitamin D are especially important for menstrual health. Reducing the amount of processed food intake and increasing omega-3 fatty acids from foods like fish, flax seeds, walnuts and more can reduce inflammation and keep your hormones in check.

Include Herbal Remedies

The Indian kitchen is full of antioxidants and medicine in the form of herbal remedies. 

हल्दी वाला दूध

One of the most talked about Indian ingredients, our very own, ‘haldi’ aka turmeric, is highly effective with its anti-inflammatory and hormone regulating properties. The best way to incorporate it in your diet is by having a cup of haldi milk every night before sleep.

Ginger Tea

Another important part of the Indian kitchen, ginger is also known for being anti-inflammatory and can help reduce period pain. Even though ginger is an important part of the Indian cooking, you can also add ginger tea to your diet for that little extra goodness.

दालचीनी

Cinnamon is known to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate menstrual cycles especially in women who have PCOS. It also has magnesium and calcium which are good for menstrual health. Add some cinnamon to warm water with honey and have it in the evening for best results.

Exercise Regularly (but in moderation)

Work out, yes, we support that, but make sure you do not over do it. Simple exercises and gentle activities like a light walk or yoga can reduce stress, increase blood flow, regulate your hormones while keeping you light all day.

Practice Stress Management (Yoga, Meditation, Deep Breathing)

Find ways to relax. Practice yoga, deep breathing meditation. Short strolls outdoors, time with friends and family, engaging in activities that promote mindfulness can be very helpful.

Stay Hydrated and Improve Lifestyle Habits

Simple, but all the more crucial for a healthy body is hydration. Drinking plenty of water is key to an improved lifestyle that helps with hormone function. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as much as possible as they cause dehydration and are not beneficial in the longer run.

Try Warm Compress or Heat Therapy

A warm bath or a heating pad on your lower abdomen can relax your muscles and encourage blood flow, which can help bring on your period if it’s delayed.

Ensure Adequate Sleep

Your body deserves adequate rest. Sleep is the part of the day when your body recovers and rebalances itself. Aim to sleep for 7-9 hours every night. Early to bed and early rise are golden words to live by. The time you sleep also counts.

When to See a Doctor

Signs Your Period Irregularity Needs Medical Attention

Home remedies might work for some and might not be enough for others. Seek a doctor’s help when:

• Your periods are delayed for three months or more

• You have severe pain or unusually heavy bleeding

• You suspect underlying medical issues

• You have been trying to conceive without success

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your body and listening to it is key. Your period is an important part of your overall health and reflects your lifestyle choices. While a lot of times the problem of irregular periods can be solved with lifestyle changes and home remedies, it is important to seek medical attention at the right time.