Polymenorrhea is the term for frequent and short menstrual cycles. This can occur naturally, but in some cases, it is a sign of an underlying problem.

Menstruation, or periods, usually occurs in a monthly cycle and lasts up to 7 days. However, the frequency and duration can vary from person to person. When a person experiences frequent and short menstrual cycles, it is called polymenorrhea.

Polymenorrhea meaning

Polymenorrhea, also known as abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), is a menstrual cycle disorder in which a woman experiences uterine bleeding at intervals of less than 21 days. To put this into perspective, a normal menstrual cycle for an adult woman lasts 21 to 35 days, with some sources defining it as 24 to 38 days. Polymenorrhea is also a risk factor for uterine cancer.

Symptoms

Early symptoms of polymenorrhea include:

• Infrequent menstrual cycles: Menstrual periods occur more frequently than every 21 days.

Other potential symptoms may include:

• Irregular or unpredictable bleeding: The timing and duration of periods may vary significantly.
• Heavy bleeding: Some people with polymenorrhea may experience heavy menstrual bleeding.

If you are experiencing frequent or irregular periods, it is very important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What are the causes of polymenorrhea?

Sometimes, no abnormality causes polymenorrhea, and this is normal for some women. However, there can be many underlying causes, and these should always be investigated to see if they can be treated, especially if the condition is causing problems with fertility as well as for the woman’s comfort.

Stress

This is a common cause of polymenorrhea, as well as other menstrual irregularities. Stress affects the hormonal balance in our bodies. Fortunately, it is a mild and treatable cause. Many women find that their polymenorrhea resolves when they address the causes of their stress and practice stress reduction exercises. There are also medications to treat stress if necessary.

Hormonal imbalances

Fluctuations in hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, can affect the menstrual cycle. Conditions such as ovulation, thyroid disorders, and hormonal changes from birth control can contribute to hormonal imbalances.

Infections and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

Infections, including chlamydia and gonorrhea, can also cause polymenorrhea. Women with chlamydia may also experience severe abdominal pain and vaginal discharge. Other symptoms of gonorrhea include severe itching in the vaginal area, a burning sensation during urination, and vaginal discharge. Both of these conditions can be treated with antibiotics. It is important that the infections are diagnosed and treated quickly, or they can lead to a range of serious health problems.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a disorder in which the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus grows outside the uterus. Endometrial tissue, made up of glands, blood cells, and connective tissue, grows naturally in the uterus, preparing the lining for ovulation. Endometriosis is often painful and involves the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and tissue lining inside the pelvis. Spreading beyond the pelvic organs is rare.

Symptoms of endometriosis include heavy, painful periods, pain during intercourse, spotting between periods, and menstrual cycle irregularities. Endometriosis can be treated with medications or surgery.

Menopause

Menopause is the term used to describe the time when a woman’s menstrual cycle stops permanently. This usually occurs in a woman’s late 40s or early 50s. In the time leading up to menopause, a woman’s body undergoes massive hormonal changes that can lead to depression, mood swings, hot flashes, and menstrual cycle irregularities such as polymenorrhea.

Uterine fibroids

These are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can affect menstrual patterns. Fibroids can cause increased bleeding as well as frequent periods.

Certain medications

Some medications, such as birth control pills or medications that affect hormone levels, may contribute to changes in menstrual patterns. Birth control pills or antidepressants may affect the menstrual cycle.

Treatment

Treatment for polymenorrhea focuses on addressing the underlying cause.

Hormonal therapy

Birth control pills: Combined oral contraceptives (containing both estrogen and progestin) are a common treatment option. They can regulate the menstrual cycle by preventing ovulation and thickening the cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg.

• Progestin-only options: These include progestin-only pills, injections (like Depo-Provera), implants (like Nexplanon), and intrauterine devices (IUDs) that release progestin. These options can also regulate the cycle and reduce bleeding.

Medications to Treat Underlying Conditions:

• Antibiotics: These are used to treat infections that may be causing irregular bleeding.
• Medications for thyroid disorders: If an underlying thyroid condition is contributing to polymenorrhea.

Surgery

In some cases, surgery may be necessary:

• To remove polyps or fibroids: If these growths are causing abnormal bleeding.
• Hysterectomy: In severe cases where other treatments have failed, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be considered.

The best treatment plan for polymenorrhea will depend on the underlying cause and individual factors.

It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Polymenorrhea lifestyle

While lifestyle factors may not directly cause polymenorrhea, they can sometimes influence its severity or contribute to underlying hormonal imbalances. Here are some general lifestyle recommendations:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or underweight can disrupt hormone levels and contribute to irregular periods.
• Engage in regular physical activity: Exercise can help regulate hormones and improve overall health.
• Manage stress: Chronic stress can affect hormone production and contribute to menstrual irregularities. Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises may be helpful.
• Eat a balanced diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support overall health and hormone balance.
• Limit alcohol and caffeine intake: Excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption can interfere with hormone production and disrupt the menstrual cycle.
• Get enough sleep: Adequate sleep is essential for overall health and hormone regulation.

Complications

Some women with polymenorrhea develop anemia due to frequent and heavy bleeding. This is a condition in which the blood lacks healthy red blood cells. Symptoms of anemia include difficulty with memory and concentration, low energy levels, fatigue, lightheadedness, pale skin, and temporary shortness of breath with activity.

Some women experience bloating and fluid retention around their menstrual period. Since polymenorrhea means that women have more periods, some complain of persistent weight gain.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing polymenorrhea usually involves a combination of steps.

Medical history and physical exam

Your doctor will collect detailed information about your menstrual cycles, including frequency, duration, and associated symptoms (such as heavy bleeding and pain). They will also perform a physical exam, including a pelvic exam, to check for any abnormalities.

Blood tests

• Hormone levels: Blood tests may be ordered to check hormone levels, such as:
• Estrogen and progesterone: To assess ovulation and the luteal phase.
• Thyroid hormones: To rule out thyroid dysfunction.
• Prolactin: To check for hyperprolactinemia, which can interfere with ovulation.

Imaging tests

Ultrasound: may be used to visualize the uterus and ovaries to rule out fibroids, polyps, or other abnormalities.

The bottom line

There is no doubt that polymenorrhea can affect a woman’s quality of life. Polymenorrhea is defined as having cycles shorter than 21 days, which means having frequent periods throughout the year. While other symptoms do not usually accompany short menstrual cycles, they may be present alongside other symptoms characteristic of the underlying cause, such as cramps, hot flashes, or fatigue.

Most of these causes are hormonal and caused by medical conditions, thyroid disease, or lifestyle factors, such as high stress or strenuous exercise. Because of the increased risk of anemia, infertility, and miscarriage associated with short menstrual cycles, polymenorrhea should be evaluated promptly and treated with a combination of a healthy diet, exercise, or stress reduction.

Women must see their doctor if they notice any changes in their menstrual cycle. Now that you are aware of the causes, symptoms, and complications of polymenorrhea, it is important to seek treatment without delay.

Dr. Naim can assist you by diagnosing the cause and providing the best treatment solution.

Additional questions

1. What causes bleeding between periods?

• Hormonal changes: Birth control, PCOS, thyroid issues, perimenopause.
• Uterine problems: Fibroids, polyps, endometriosis.
• Infections: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), STIs.
• Other: Cervical cancer, medications, trauma, stress

2. What causes missed periods other than pregnancy?

Menstrual irregularities, such as missed or delayed periods, occur in 14 to 25 percent of women of reproductive age. A wide range of conditions can cause them in addition to pregnancy, including hormonal imbalances, stress, weight loss, hormonal birth control, trauma, and certain health conditions.

3. Can polymenorrhea cause infertility?

Yes, polymenorrhea can increase the risk of infertility by disrupting ovulation and shortening the luteal phase.

4. Does spotting mean pregnancy?

Spotting can sometimes be an early sign of pregnancy, but it’s not always. Implantation bleeding is light bleeding or spotting that occurs when a fertilized egg implants in the lining of the uterus. It usually happens around the time you’re expecting your period. Other causes: Spotting can be caused by many other factors, such as:

• Hormonal changes
• Conditions of the uterus
• Infections

5. What are the common bleeding disorders in women?

The most common bleeding disorder affecting women is von Willebrand disease (VWD). Von Willebrand disease is caused by a deficiency or defect in the body’s ability to produce a certain protein that helps blood clot.

Reference

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321811#faq

https://www.healthline.com/health/vaginal-bleeding-between-periods

https://www.healthshots.com/intimate-health/menstruation/polymenorrhea/

https://www.bajajfinservhealth.in/articles/polymenorrhea-causes-treatment