Are You Getting Your Period Twice A Month? Here’s What It Could Mean (Image Credits: iStock)
Having your period twice a month might seem unusual, but for some women, it’s a regular occurrence. While an occasional irregular cycle may not be a cause for concern, frequent or unexpected bleeding can sometimes signal a health issue. Dr Astha Dayal, Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, explains the possible reasons behind this and when is the right time to seek medical advice.
Why Are You Menstruating Twice a Month?
Dr Dayal explains possible reasons why you may be getting periods twice a month:
1. Hormonal Imbalance – If your ovulation is irregular, it can cause inconsistent periods. Stress, poor diet, excessive exercise, thyroid disorders, and conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) are common culprits.
2. Shorter Menstrual Cycles – Women with cycles shorter than 21 days naturally experience two periods in one calendar month. If this has always been the case for you, it’s likely normal.
3. Ovulation Bleeding – Some women experience light spotting around mid-cycle due to a temporary drop in estrogen levels. This can often be mistaken for an early period.
4. Birth Control Pills and Contraceptives – Starting or stopping birth control pills, using hormonal IUDs, or taking emergency contraception can cause breakthrough bleeding outside your usual period.
5. Perimenopause – Women in their late 40s may experience inconsistent menstrual cycles due to hormonal shifts as their bodies prepare for menopause.
6. Endometriosis – This condition causes tissue similar to the uterine lining to grow outside the uterus, leading to irregular and painful periods.
7. Uterine Fibroids or Polyps – Non-cancerous growths in the uterus can cause excessive or prolonged bleeding, often leading to two periods in one month.
8. Thyroid Disorders – An overactive or underactive thyroid can interfere with hormone production, disrupting menstrual regularity.
9. Stress And Lifestyle Changes – High stress, extreme weight fluctuations, excessive exercise, and poor sleep habits can all throw off your menstrual cycle. Dr Dayal points out that stress is often the most common reason for irregular periods.
10. Pregnancy-Related Bleeding – Early pregnancy complications like ectopic pregnancy, chemical pregnancy, or early miscarriage may cause unexpected bleeding that can be mistaken for a period.
11. Post-Coital Bleeding – If you notice bleeding after intercourse, it could be due to cervical polyps, infections, or, in rare cases, cervical cancer.
When Should You Be Concerned?As per Dr Dayal, not all irregularities require medical attention, but some red flags warrant a visit to the doctor:
- Periods lasting longer or heavier than usual.
- Severe cramps or pain that disrupt daily life.
- Bleeding between periods or after intercourse.
- Sudden, unexplained changes in cycle length.
- Recurring two periods in one month for multiple cycles.
- Fatigue, significant weight changes, or other unusual symptoms alongside irregular periods.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Dr Dayal shares, if you experience persistent irregular periods, your doctor may recommend tests such as:
- Blood tests to check hormone levels and thyroid function.
- Ultrasound to detect fibroids, polyps, or other uterine abnormalities.
- Pap smear to screen for cervical health issues.
Treatment OptionsDr Dayal shares that treatment depends on the underlying cause. Some common approaches include:
1. Lifestyle Modifications – Managing stress, maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper sleep can regulate your cycle.
2. Hormonal Therapy – Birth control pills or hormone treatments may be recommended to stabilize irregular periods.
3. Medical Treatment – Conditions like thyroid disorders or fibroids may require medication or, in some cases, surgical intervention.
"If your cycle has always been on the shorter side, experiencing two periods a month may not be a problem. However, if this pattern is new or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical advice. Keeping track of your menstrual cycle and understanding potential causes can help you to take better care of your reproductive health," Dr Dayal said.
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