Different Types of Menstrual Cycles

Author: Pheona Angoy

Date: 08/09/2024

The menstrual cycle is NOT just the menstrual phase and then an unimportant chunk of time where we exist happily and in a state of balance until the next period comes around. It is also NOT supposed to be unbearably painful. But it seems the narrative that is being passed on to so many people with menstrual cycles is that severe pain is normal. I'd like us to take a moment to stop, and thank our bodies. They communicate so well with us even though we are not always prepared to understand what they are saying. But if something was screamed at you loudly, would not you turn and listen? That was  my commentary, lets get to the content.

Menstrual cycles can vary significantly depending on underlying health conditions, hormonal balance, and individual physiology. Here’s an overview of different types of menstrual cycles, including those affected by conditions like endometriosis or adenomyosis:

• Description: A regular menstrual cycle typically lasts 21 to 35 days, with menstruation lasting 3 to 7 days. Hormone levels, including estrogen and progesterone, fluctuate predictably, leading to ovulation and shedding of the uterine lining if pregnancy does not occur.

• Description: An irregular menstrual cycle is characterized by unpredictable timing, flow, or duration. Causes can include stress, significant weight changes, hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or thyroid disorders.

• Description: Amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstruation. It can be primary (when a person has not started menstruating by age 15) or secondary (when periods stop for three months or more in someone who previously had regular cycles). Causes include hormonal imbalances, extreme weight loss, excessive exercise, or medical conditions like PCOS or thyroid disorders.

• Description: Oligomenorrhea is when menstrual cycles are infrequent, typically occurring more than 35 days apart. This can be caused by hormonal imbalances, PCOS, or other medical conditions.

• Description: Menorrhagia is characterized by abnormally heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. It can be caused by hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, or other health conditions.

• Description: Polymenorrhea occurs when menstrual cycles are shorter than 21 days, leading to more frequent periods. This can result from hormonal imbalances, stress, or thyroid disorders.

• Description: Dysmenorrhea refers to painful periods, often caused by conditions like endometriosis, adenomyosis, or fibroids. There are two types: primary (common menstrual cramps) and secondary (pain caused by a reproductive health condition).

• Description: Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, leading to painful periods, heavy bleeding, and sometimes infertility. The menstrual cycle is often marked by severe dysmenorrhea (painful cramps) and can affect the timing and flow of menstruation.

• Description: Adenomyosis is when the endometrial tissue grows into the uterine muscle, causing the uterus to become enlarged. This condition can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), severe menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea), and chronic pelvic pain. Menstrual cycles in those with adenomyosis are often very painful and can be associated with heavy, prolonged bleeding.

• Description: An anovulatory cycle occurs when ovulation does not take place, meaning the egg is not released from the ovary. Menstruation may still occur, but it can be irregular and unpredictable. Causes include hormonal imbalances, stress, and medical conditions like PCOS.

• Description: Hypomenorrhea is characterized by extremely light menstrual periods, which may be due to hormonal imbalances, contraception methods like hormonal IUDs, or underlying health issues.

• Description: PMDD is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) characterized by significant mood disturbances, such as depression or anxiety, along with physical symptoms like bloating and breast tenderness. The menstrual cycle may be accompanied by intense emotional and physical symptoms that disrupt daily life.

• Intersex Individuals: Some intersex individuals might have atypical reproductive anatomy, which can affect the menstrual cycle or result in the absence of menstruation.
• Transgender Individuals: Transgender men and non-binary individuals who menstruate may experience cycles differently, particularly if they are undergoing hormone therapy, which can alter or stop menstruation.

Understanding these different types of menstrual cycles can help individuals recognize what is normal for them and when they might need to seek medical advice. If you suspect you have any of these conditions, consulting a healthcare provider is essential for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Sources:

“Menstrual Cycle (Normal Menstruation): Overview & Phases.” Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/10132-menstrual-cycle. Accessed 9 Aug. 2024. 

Parker, William H., et al. “Menstrual Disorders.” HealthyWomen, 19 Jan. 2023, www.healthywomen.org/condition/menstrual-disorders. 

“Period Irregularities to Get Checked Out.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 22 Apr. 2023, www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/womens-health/in-depth/menstrual-cycle/art-20047186.