How Are Irregular Menses and Pregnancy Related?

Pregnant woman holding an ultrasound image, illustrating how irregular menses and pregnancy can sometimes be linked through missed or delayed menstrual cycles.

To most women, the period is a mystery. It comes on time sometimes, but other times simply decides not to show. We’ve all looked at the calendar to decide if you missed your period or if you simply got another irregular one. Those who are trying to get pregnant are the most frustrated by the mystery of missing periods.

The bright side is that, with the knowledge that irregular menses and pregnancy, the first step to control has been made.

What Counts as an Irregular Period?

Irregular periods fall outside of the standard. This would include shorter or lengthier cycles (less than 21 days or longer than 35 days, respectively) as well as cycles that vary in length from month to month.

Within a standard deviation of a cycle, some women will experience irregular periods that have short-term causes such as stress or illness. For abnormal menstruation, however, it is advised that if it is persistent, then a possible underlying cause should be investigated and studied.

Is It Possible To Conceive With Irregular Periods?

You can have irregular periods and still be pregnant, yet it can be a challenge. The primary concern is that each month is not a consistent period, and the time of ovulation is unknown.

Periods can also be irregular and result in infrequent ovulation. This also means irregular ovulation is very unpredictable, and ovulation does not guarantee that a pregnancy will happen.

Signs of Ovulation to Watch For

While it’s a challenge to determine when to get pregnant, here are some signs of ovulation to look out for:

  • Clear, stretchy cervical mucus (like egg whites)
  • Increased basal body temp
  • Some cramping or pain on one side of the lower abdomen.
  • Increased libido

How Irregular Periods Affect Fertility

There are a couple of important consequences of irregular periods on fertility:

  • Irregular ovulation reduces the likelihood of getting pregnant each month.
  • Sometimes the egg may not be released because of a hormonal imbalance.
  • PCOS or thyroid disease can be the cause of infertility if not treated.

The good news? There are lots of causes of irregularity that can be treated.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you have an irregular cycle, it means that you may have a lot of questions regarding the chances of pregnancy and irregular cycles. If periods are irregular, don’t despair because it does not mean it is impossible to conceive, and there are options and help for you.

When your period is irregular, please visit Highlander Fertility Wellness Center. We will help you become familiar with your cycle. Now it’s time to get from wishing for the best to wishing for a pregnancy!

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