If you’re considering adding a baby to the family, there are many things to consider. For many women, irregular periods are a cause for concern.
Here, Hany H Ahmed, MD, an OB/GYN specialist serving the Houston, Texas, area, offers guidance on how irregular menstrual cycles affect fertility and how he can help.
Any discussion of irregular periods should begin with the caveat that there’s no such thing as a standard experience of menstrual bleeding. You may share points of commonality with other women, but your experience is unique and can change over time.
Periods are considered “normal” when they occur every 21-35 days (with an average of 29 days), and last 4-7 days. Some women get their periods on a predictable schedule, while others notice variation from one month to the next.
Your menstrual cycle centers on ovulation, which is why irregular bleeding can affect your ability to become pregnant. So, if your monthly bleeding isn’t so monthly, it’s a good idea to schedule a visit with Dr. Ahmed to discuss your family planning needs.
A long list of conditions can cause or contribute to irregular bleeding. Some can directly impact your fertility, while others are unlikely to cause problems. Examples include:
If you notice changes in your periods, reach out to schedule a visit with Dr. Ahmed. Determining the cause of irregular bleeding is the first step to finding a solution. That’s especially important if you’re planning to have a baby in the near future.
Your treatment plan depends on what’s causing changes to your periods. For women who aren’t on an immediate path toward motherhood, hormone-based birth control methods can help regulate and often reduce bleeding.
If you’re diagnosed with a gynecologic condition, treatment might include medication to control symptoms and boost ovulation.
Conditions like uterine fibroids or endometriosis might require surgical intervention to remove abnormal tissue and increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Intrauterine insemination helps in many cases. This process involves placing prepared sperm directly into your uterus, eliminating the need for sperm to travel to reach a waiting egg.
Dr. Ahmed takes great pride in helping women and couples find fertility solutions. If you experience irregular periods and are considering motherhood, make scheduling a visit a priority.
Call the office or request your appointment online today.
