Irregular periods often? Gynaecologist shares when it could mean something serious: 'Conditions like uterine cancer…'

If you are experiencing any abnormal menstrual changes, don’t brush them aside, as they could indicate something serious.

Irregular periods show up once in a while, and many attribute them to hormonal changes. Hormonal fluctuations can occur due to lifestyle changes, stress, travel or other conditions like PCOS. While some occasional changes in the cycle may be common, when they start happening frequently, they may indicate an underlying health issue and should not be ignored.

Dr Pakhee Aggarwal, senior consultant in gynaecology, oncology and robotic surgery at Apollo Athenaa Women's Cancer Centre, shared with HT Lifestyle that irregular periods should not be brushed aside as just a ‘hormonal issue.’

“Stress, lifestyle changes, weight fluctuations, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are commonly blamed and often rightly so,” she noted, highlighting the most common assumptions. While these factors are valid, they are not the only drivers of irregular periods, especially when the issue continues to persist. In some cases, the irregularities may point to something more serious. "In some cases, they can be an early sign of underlying gynaecological cancers,” Dr Aggarwal.

Risks of gynaecological cancer

The gynaecologist cautioned that gynaecological cancers often do not show dramatic symptoms early on, but instead can develop silently, presenting through subtle changes in the menstrual cycle. These can vary, ranging from unusually heavy or prolonged periods to irregular cycles, spotting between periods, or even bleeding after menopause.

Dr Aggarwal noted, “Conditions such as uterine (endometrial), cervical, and ovarian cancers can present subtly, especially in their early stages.”

She further mentioned some warning signs, which are big red flags:

• Unusually heavy periods
• Prolonged/irregular periods
• Bleeding that occurs between cycles
• Bleeding after menopause
  

Types of cancers

Ensure you get yourself checked regularly. (Pexel)

Irregular or any abnormal changes in periods, beyond routine hormonal ups and downs, can sometimes indicate gynaecological cancers. The doctor listed the following cancers and how they impact the menstrual cycle:

1. Endometrial cancer

• Endometrial cancer, which affects the lining of the uterus, often presents with changes in menstrual patterns long before other symptoms appear.

2. Cervical cancer

• Cervical cancer may cause irregular bleeding, spotting after intercourse, or unusually watery or foul-smelling discharge.

3. Ovarian cancer

• Ovarian cancer, while more silent, can sometimes disrupt menstrual cycles along with symptoms like bloating, pelvic pain, or unexplained fatigue.

There is a common belief that gynaecological cancers are only a concern for older women. While the risk does increase after 40, younger women are not entirely risk-free. The gynaecologist pointed out that age is a major misconception in this context.

“Irregular cycles in the 30s are often dismissed as stress-related, when timely evaluation could lead to early detection and significantly better outcomes,” she mentioned, pointing out how menstrual discomfort is often normalised among women. Painful periods, excessive bleeding, or cycle changes are frequently accepted as part of womanhood. Social stigma around discussing menstruation is also harmful, as it can delay timely diagnosis until symptoms become severe.

The doctor concluded by mentioning another set of red flags. If cycle changes last for more than three months, interfere with daily life, or are accompanied by pain, unexplained weight loss, anaemia, or fatigue, a medical evaluation is essential. Simple tests such as ultrasound scans, Pap smears, or biopsies can help rule out serious causes early.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.