Chronic Illness & The Menstrual Cycle

Part Two in Our Hormones & Chronic Illness Series

The first post within our Hormones & Chronic Illness Series explored the link between hormonal imbalances and complex chronic conditions such as autoimmune diseases, environmentally acquired illnesses, thyroid disorders, insulin resistance, and many others. We discussed how hormone imbalances are commonly a cause or consequence of complex chronic illness, and how changes in the menstrual cycle may occur when our hormones are out of balance (for instance, hormones like estrogen, progesterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone).

But how does complex chronic illness impact the period cycle, exactly? And what does this mean for our hormones, fertility, and overall health? Read on as we take a closer look in Part Two of our Hormones & Chronic Illness Blog Series.

Complex Chronic Illness & Menstrual Cycle Abnormalities

Menstruation typically occurs every 26 to 35 days — with an average period cycle of 29 days — and remains fairly consistent from month to month. Typical bleeding (which occurs during the first phase of the period cycle) tends to last from three to seven days and is usually accompanied by mild pain or cramping. The color of period blood should resemble that of cranberries and be free of large, heavy clots.

That being said, it’s not uncommon for those with complex chronic illnesses to experience longer, shorter, absent, or abnormal menstrual cycles. These abnormalities can occur throughout all four phases of the menstrual cycle — including menstruation, the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase — and therefore lead to menstrual problems and other hormonal issues all month long.

Here are just a few of the ways living with one or more complex chronic illnesses can impact your menstrual cycle.

Painful, Heavy, & Irregular Periods

Many complex health conditions — especially ones like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) — cause heavy bleeding; irregular periods; and pain in the pelvic area, abdomen, back, or legs. Even medical conditions that wouldn’t seem to have much of an impact on menstruation — including type 1 diabetes and cystic fibrosis — have been linked to menstrual abnormalities like delayed menarche and irregular menses.

Amenorrhea, Anovulation, & Infertility

Amenorrhea and anovulation can also occur with many other complex chronic conditions. For instance, amenorrhea (the absence of menstrual periods) can occur in those with autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s, chronic kidney disease, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Anovulation (the absence of ovulation) can occur in those with PCOS and untreated thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Researchers have also discovered a link between long-COVID and menstrual changes, specifically missed periods (amenorrhea).

Amenorrhea and anovulation sometimes do occur together, but this isn’t always the case. It’s possible to have a menstrual period each month — or what seems like a “normal” period cycle — without actually ovulating. And of course, anovulation is one common cause of infertility.

Early Menopause

Some chronic health conditions can contribute to early (premature) menopause as well. For instance, autoimmune thyroid disease, endometriosis, and epilepsy are several chronic health conditions associated with early menopause in people assigned female at birth. Keep in mind; however, that diet, lifestyle, and many other factors also come into play here!

Menstruation Affects Chronic Illnesses, Too

On the other side of the coin, the menstrual cycle may also improve or aggravate many of the physical, mental, and emotional symptoms associated with complex chronic illness. It all comes down to our ever-fluctuating hormones: the chemical messengers that affect numerous bodily functions like metabolism and reproduction. Head on over to Part One in our Hormones & Chronic Illness Blog Series to learn more about the vital roles our hormones play in keeping us healthy, happy, and feeling our best.

You’re Not Stuck With Menstrual Issues

While it’s true that menstrual irregularities and abnormalities are common among those of us with complex chronic illness, it doesn’t mean it’s normal to experience them. And we’re definitely not stuck with them for the rest of our menstruating years!

This is where functional and naturopathic medicine comes in. Through hormone testing and functional medicine coaching, Dr. Fox and I will identify the hormone imbalances that may be contributing to your symptoms so you can say goodbye to debilitating cramps, PMS-related mood swings, and missed periods. We’ll work together to balance your hormones and regulate your period — all while managing your complex chronic illness in an ultra-personalized way.

Ready to regulate your menstrual cycle and regain control over your health and hormones? Schedule your Vital You Consult, book a call for the Vital Basics Method™, or visit our website to learn how Dr. Fox and I can help you heal from menstrual abnormalities and complex chronic illness.

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