Irregular Periods

Yes, several types of urinary incontinence exist, and it's not uncommon for individuals to experience more than one type:

• Amenorrhea: This condition involves the complete cessation of periods. If you haven't menstruated by age 15 or 16 or if there's an absence of a period for 90 days or more (excluding pregnancy, breastfeeding, or menopause), it's considered amenorrhea.
• Oligomenorrhea: Periods that occur infrequently, typically more than 35 days apart or only six to eight times a year.
• Dysmenorrhea: Severe menstrual cramps and painful periods. Mild discomfort during the menstrual cycle is typical, but extreme pain is a cause for concern.
• Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: This encompasses bleeding between monthly periods, extended bleeding or extremely heavy periods.

Treatments vary depending on the root cause of the irregularity, but some treatments include:

• Medication: Options include hormonal birth control, tranexamic acid, pain relievers, hormone therapy, antibiotics and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists.
• Surgery: Depending on the specific condition and the individual's circumstances, surgeries such as endometrial ablation, myomectomy, uterine artery embolization or even hysterectomy might be recommended.

To potentially reduce the risk of irregular periods:

• Maintain a balanced lifestyle with moderate exercise and a nutritious diet
• Ensure adequate rest
• Implement stress-reduction techniques
• Avoid extreme exercise routines
• Use birth control and other contraceptive methods as directed
• Regularly change tampons or pads
• Attend regular check-ups with your gynecologist and primary care provider