Irregular periods come in varied and unique forms among perimenopause and menopausal women, varying from woman to woman. Irregular menstrual periods are one of the initial indications that the body provides to indicate the approach of menopause. Almost 90% of women will encounter irregular periods before they actually approach menopause. Hormones play a major part in the menstrual cycle and their imbalance causes these irregularities.

Hormones are responsible for menstruation cycles and when the regular production levels of these hormones begin to change — the body goes through many transformations that can effect a woman physically and psychologically. These changes in the menstrual cycle are mainly due to the decreased levels in production of the female hormones progesterone and estrogen in the body. However, on occasion there could be some other reasons for the onset of irregular periods such as poor nutrition, drug use, heavy alcohol use, stress or over exercise. This is why it is imperative you look after yourself during perimenopause and the menopause years. A few simple lifestyle tips can help you manage these bodily changes and understand the life stage you are in. As estrogen levels reduce or become erratic the uterine lining will become thinner or shed possibly leading to bleeding. Progesterone helps to control the strength and duration of menstrual bleeding plus prompting the shedding of the uterine contents after ovulation when fertilization has not occurred. Irregular periods are therefore a direct result of these fluctuating levels of the two main hormones connected to many of the common symptoms during menopause.

Stress, depression and anxiety that often occur during perimenopause and menopause in fact worsen these conditions of irregular menstrual periods. Adrenal glands are responsible for regulating the level of cortisol in the body, which in turn impacts on estrogen and progesterone production. In response to chronic stress, the adrenals increase cortisol production, which then affects the hormonal balance in the female body.

One of the simplest methods to help normalize the menstrual cycle is to ensure that you have a regular natural and healthy diet full of vitamins from fresh vegetables and fruit plus good hydration — drink plenty of water or juices. All of these nutrients have been found to help normalize the menstrual cycle. Freeing your life of stress is a must and finding time to relax and making time for yourself is very important. Making sure you get 7-8 hours of good sleep every night will enable you to decrease stress levels and lead a more relaxed life. You must also try to decrease alcohol and caffeine intake. A new natural and drug free device to the USA is LadyCare. The small device is believed to help restore the natural hormone levels in your body easing this and many other symptoms associated with menopause. It has been available in the UK for many years and is now also available in over 14 countries worldwide. Make time for yourself, try not to put yourself into stressful situations — plan your day. If the irregular periods start to seriously impact on your day it is recommended to seek advice from a qualified specialist.

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