Is your period irregular? This lifestyle disease could be to blame

A new study shows that girls diagnosed with type 2 diabetes have a high frequency of menstrual irregularities, which can put them at risk of fatty liver disease, fertility problems and endometrial cancer. Here’s why.

Menstrual irregularities can be caused by a host of different factors, be it pregnancy, hormonal imbalances, infections, disease, trauma or certain medications. Now, a new study shows that girls diagnosed with type 2 diabetes have a high frequency of menstrual irregularities.

Previous studies had shown that adult women with obesity are at risk for menstrual disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can lead to the development of diabetes or other metabolic problems. However, there is little research about the reproductive function in girls with youth-onset type 2 diabetes.

“It’s important for girls with type 2 diabetes to be assessed for menstrual problems,” said Megan Kelsey from University of Colorado in the US. “Infrequent periods can be associated with heavy and painful periods, increased risk for fatty liver disease, fertility problems and long-term increased risk for endometrial cancer,” said Kelsey.

What the study shows

The researchers found that more than 20% of girls in the study had irregular periods. Many of those girls also had high testosterone levels, pointing to PCOS as an underlying cause. Not all the girls with irregular periods had elevated testosterone, suggesting other causes for menstrual dysfunction.

“Our findings suggest that girls with youth-onset diabetes may need the additional intervention above and beyond their diabetes treatment to improve their menstrual health,” Kelsey said.

Asanas can reduce problems such as amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. (Shutterstock)

What can you do

A previous study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine showed that yogasanas can enhance mood and reduce pain in women affected by menstrual distress, associated with physical and psychological symptoms. Another study done by King’s College London, UK, showed that yoga can help keep your menstrual cycle problem-free, and reduce problems such as amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

(With inputs from PTI)

Follow @htlifeandstyle for more