Are you someone who experiences irregular menstrual cycles? Are you trying to get pregnant? You may be concerned about how your periods might affect your fertility. There are several factors that can affect fertility, including irregular periods. Learn more about what irregularity entails and what it can mean for you.

What is considered an irregular period?

A regular period cycle is one that typically occurs every 28 days and lasts around four to seven days long. A menstrual cycle can range from 21 days to 35 days. Cycles that occur in shorter or longer periods of time than the typical range are described as irregular. Irregularity also consists of missing several periods, abnormal amounts of menstrual blood, periods that last longer than a week, and significant pain or discomfort during each period.

It is worth noting that when your period cycle is occasionally off a day or two but usually comes around the same time each month, you’re probably not experiencing irregularity.

What can cause someone to have irregular periods?

A variety of conditions that are linked to menstrual irregularity. For example: 

• Endometriosis — Endometriosis is a condition in which the lining that normally grows inside the uterus begins to grow around other organs in the body. It can cause significant menstrual cramping and heavy or minimal blood flow during your period. 

• Polycystic ovary syndrome — Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition in which fluid-filled cysts grow on the inside of the ovaries due to abnormal hormone levels. It can cause periods to occur irregularly or not at all.

• Thyroid disorder — Thyroid disorders, like hypothyroidism, can affect the hormones in your thyroid gland. These types of disorders cause periods to be abnormally heavy, light, or not occur at all for several months at a time.

What can irregular periods mean for your fertility?

Irregular periods do have the potential to impact your fertility. Abnormal periods often suggest that ovulation is abnormal as well. Ovulation may occur unpredictably for those with unpredictable periods, which can make trying to get pregnant on your own more of a challenge.

Can you still get pregnant if you have irregular periods?

It’s important not to panic and immediately discount your ability to get pregnant based on irregular periods alone. Your chances of getting pregnant may be lower because of your menstrual irregularity, but it may be possible still. If you’re not sure of the status of your fertility, you can consult with a fertility specialist. They can provide you with infertility testing, advice and treatments so that you can work toward the outcome you desire.

Why choose Fertility Cloud?

At Fertility Cloud, we value shared experiences. We want to help you navigate your struggles and celebrate your victories. Our team of experienced medical providers is dedicated to providing you with compassionate and professional care. Through every step of the way, we’ll do our very best to ensure your comfort and guide you through the fertility process. We know that infertility can cause uncertainty. That’s why we’re committed to servicing each of our clients with empathy.  

At Fertility Cloud, everything is done remotely, from your communication with your doctor to your fertility tests. Our appointments are conducted virtually, via live videoconferencing. All that’s required of you is either a computer, smartphone or tablet to join the call. The typical appointment takes around 30 minutes. You’ll undergo an initial consultation, and subsequent treatment will be monitored for at least three months. We’re confident we can provide you with the answers you’re looking for regarding your reproductive health and fertility options.

We understand that finding convenient, high-quality medical care can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve selected some of the best reproductive endocrinology specialists out there to provide you with easily accessible digital services. Each one of our doctors is board-certified and state licensed.

Are you hoping to start the conversation about period irregularity and its relationship with infertility? Do you have more questions that haven’t been answered by the information in this article? We’re here to talk. Irregular periods and infertility can be a sensitive topic, which is why we’re committed to providing you with the utmost care and respect.

Contact our team by phone today for more information or book an initial appointment online with a fertility specialist.