The menstrual cycle is regulated by the levels of estrogen and progesterone, and menstrual delay often stems from cycle fluctuations. So, what factors in life can lead to irregular menstruation?
Smoking is an important factor. Nicotine can reduce hormone secretion, interfere with menstrual-related physiological processes, and lead to menstrual irregularities. The probability of menstrual disorders in heavy smokers is three times that of non-smokers.
Stress is also significant. Women of reproductive age who are under long-term significant psychological stress can inhibit pituitary function, affect normal ovarian secretion and ovulation, and thereby cause menstrual disorders. Prolonged emotional suppression can also have adverse effects on menstruation.
Getting cold easily is another reason. Consuming cold foods or wearing thin clothes during menstruation can contract pelvic blood vessels, leading to abnormal ovarian function, manifested by reduced menstrual flow or even amenorrhea.
Constipation may trigger menstrual issues. Excessive rectal filling can displace the cervix, tilt the uterus backward, affect venous blood flow, lead to uterine congestion, loss of elasticity, and long-term irregular menstruation and lower back pain.
Drug abuse, especially antibiotics, can cause female menstrual irregularities, anovulation, and even amenorrhea because antibiotics can disrupt hormonal balance.
The impact of electromagnetic waves should not be underestimated. Electromagnetic waves generated by household appliances and electronic devices acting on the human body for a long time can interfere with endocrine and reproductive functions, leading to menstrual irregularities.
Excessive exercise may increase the secretion of androgens by the adrenal glands, while decreased fat affects estrogen production, causing hormonal imbalance. This is particularly evident in female athletes and may lead to irregular menstruation or amenorrhea.
Excessive dieting for weight loss also affects menstruation. Inadequate nutrient intake makes the brain believe the body is not suitable for pregnancy, thereby affecting ovarian ovulation and menstrual regularity. Rapid weight loss also forces the endocrine system to adjust, temporarily disrupting the menstrual cycle.
All these factors reveal the possible effects of modern life on women’s menstrual cycles at different levels, reminding us to be aware of and avoid these risks in daily life.
