Getting your periods twice in a month can be upsetting but it is rarely problematic. A normal menstrual cycle takes around 28 days and various factors can influence the cycle. Here’s an overview of why some women may experience getting periods twice a month.
Shorter menstrual cycle
Some women naturally have a shorter menstrual cycle around 21 to 25 days. Getting your period twice a month is a common phenomenon for women with shorter menstrual cycles.
Hormonal imbalance
Any imbalance within the hormones can be a leading cause of getting your period twice a month. Hormones such as estrogen and progesterone are responsible for regulating the normal menstrual cycle. Any disruption within these hormones can affect the frequency of your periods.
Ovulation spotting
Many women may experience ovulation spotting as a second period. The release of an egg from the ovaries that typically occurs 10 to 14 days after getting your period is termed ovulation. Spotting during the ovulation phase can also be experienced as a second mini-period.
Birth control
Starting or changing your birth control has an elevated effect on your menstrual cycle. Birth control such as hormonal pills, patches, or IUDs disrupts normal hormonal balance leading to disturbed menstrual frequency.
Perimenopause
Perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause. Women who are in their 40s and early 50s might experience perimenopause which can lead to getting your period twice in a month.
Stress and lifestyle factors
Stress can highly impact your menstrual cycle. Emotional or mental stress affects the hypothalamus, a part of the brain responsible for hormonal regulation. Sedentary lifestyle factors such as disrupted sleep cycles, weight loss or gain, and intense or no exercise play a key role in inducing stress. These factors can cause periods to come more frequently. Stress even disturbs cortisol levels which affect the timings of menstruation and ovulation phases.
Underlying medical conditions
Certain medical conditions are known to disrupt the normal menstrual cycle. Conditions such as Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and uterine fibroids or polyps are significantly known to impact normal menstrual frequency. Along with other symptoms getting your period twice in a month is the most crucial symptom in identifying these conditions.
Getting your period twice in a month can be unsettling but it is generally caused by minimal factors. However, if the frequency becomes severe, consulting a healthcare specialist is important for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
