Why Are Menstrual Cycle Abnormalities and Fertility Issues More Common Nowadays?

Menstrual cycle irregularities and fertility problems are increasingly common among women today. Several lifestyle, environmental, medical, and social changes are contributing to this trend. This handout explains the key factors and what you can do about them.

1. Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

• Stress: Chronic stress can interfere with brain signals that control ovulation, leading to irregular or missed periods.
• Diet and Nutrition: Poor nutrition, extreme dieting, or eating disorders can disrupt hormonal balance.
• Obesity: Excess weight leads to hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance, commonly seen in PCOS.
• Chemicals in the Environment: Exposure to substances like BPA (found in plastics) can affect hormone levels and fertility.

2. Medical Conditions Affecting Reproduction

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A common condition causing irregular periods, acne, and difficulty getting pregnant.
• Endometriosis and Adenomyosis: Conditions that cause painful periods and may affect fertility.
• Thyroid Disorders: An underactive or overactive thyroid gland can affect menstrual regularity and ovulation.

3. Delaying Childbirth

Many women today choose to have children later in life. However, fertility naturally decreases with age, especially after 35. Older age can also cause more menstrual cycle changes and reduce the chances of successful pregnancy.

4. Sedentary Lifestyle and Urban Living

• Lack of exercise and poor sleep habits can affect hormone levels and menstrual health.
• Working night shifts or frequent travel across time zones can disrupt your natural body clock and cycles.

5. Genetics and Family History

If your mother or sister had PCOS, early menopause, or infertility, you may be more likely to experience similar issues.

6. Increased Awareness and Diagnosis

With more people talking about menstrual health and better medical tools available, more women are now being diagnosed with conditions that previously went unnoticed. This may explain why these problems seem more common today.

Summary of Key Factors

If you experience irregular periods or difficulty getting pregnant, talk to a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and lifestyle changes can improve your chances of restoring cycle health and fertility.

Dr Sharad ObGynae
+6010 7778901