By now, you probably know what lies ahead when you hit 30, especially for women. Women over 30 years old undergo many biological changes thanks to the ageing process. It’s natural for some of the body’s functions to slow down as we get older which presents itself in several ways. Whether it’s the rapid weight gain, increased sex drive, or weakened bones, these changes are inevitable and can start in your early 30s to mid-30s but many women don’t notice these changes as soon as they start. However, one of the changes that can’t go unnoticed is the inconsistent periods.
A change in periods is one of the most common changes that happen in your 30s. It’s mostly associated with hormonal changes but there are a number of reasons your flow is not the same as it was in your 20s. Here are some reasons why your periods change in your 30s.
-
Birth Control
Birth control suppresses ovulation by introducing different hormones into your system which can cause a disturbance in your usual period cycle. Additionally, various birth controls have different effects on your periods. Some cause light periods and spotting while others suppress period cycles entirely. However, this shouldn’t be a cause for alarm. Research suggests that the body can stay healthy without menstruating as often as it typically would. Questions To Consider Before Choosing A Birth Control Method
-
Breast Feeding
Many women have babies in their 30s which can affect their periods due to breastfeeding. Breastfeeding women are more likely to experience irregular periods due to prolactin, a hormone that plays a role in breast milk production and also suppresses ovulation. This is especially common if you breastfeed frequently and exclusively during the first months of a baby’s life. Periods should start shortly after the breastfeeding reduces or stops entirely. Breast Feeding Hacks For New Mums
-
Stress
As we get older, the pressure of life increases which can take a toll on our bodies. Stress is known to affect period cycles since the body releases stress hormones which can interact with our sex hormones. A study conducted during the pandemic found that out of 210 participants, 54% reported changes in their menstrual cycles in the early months of the pandemic. This was a highly stressful period for many people hence the change in periods. Similarly, many women experience a lot of stress in their 30s which can cause irregular periods. 5 Simple Tips For Managing Stress
-
Weight Changes
Weight gain or loss is one of the most common causes of irregular periods. Due to slower metabolism, we tend to gain weight in our 30s. Additionally, some contraceptives can lead to drastic weight gain. Hormone levels are affected by your weight and the amount of fat in your body. Drastic weight gain or loss can affect your hormone levels leading to irregular periods. If you are underweight, you are likely to miss your periods. On the other hand, too much weight can lead to heavy or irregular periods.
-
Medical Conditions
Problems with ovulation are the leading underlying cause of infertility in women. Women in their 30s are prone to an array of medical conditions that affect their reproductive health and cause irregular periods. These conditions include Cervical Cancer, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Endometriosis, and Fibroids. They are caused by several issues such as hormonal dysfunction, genetics, infections, and diet. It’s advisable to get regular checkups and a pap smear exam at least once a year for detection, diagnosis, and treatment of any of these reproductive health issues.
-
Perimenopause
Perimenopause is a period when the body is transitioning into menopause. It happens years before menopause and can last for several months or up to 10 years. Additionally, women start perimenopause at different ages. Some notice signs in their 40s while others may start noticing changes in their mid-30s. A woman who is experiencing perimenopause will notice a change in her cycle. During this period, the cycle can be longer or shorter and eventually, stops altogether. Perimenopause can be managed through medical treatment. The Symptoms Of Early Menopause, Causes, And Treatment
Check out
10 Natural Ways To Balance Your Hormones
7 Health Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
8 Common Fertility Myths Debunked
Health: Signs Your Period Or Menstrual Cramps Are Not Normal
Here Are Foods To Eat And Those To Avoid During Your Periods
