Irregular menstrual cycles affect most women at some stage, may it only be in the beginning or toward the end of her reproductive life. The definition of irregular menstrual cycles is simply any menstrual bleeding that is irregular for you. One or two missed periods in a year is for the most part nothing to worry about.

Short term irregular menstrual cycles, i.e. a skipped or delayed period may be due to:

- Stress - First onset of monthly bleeding (irregular menstrual cycles are common for months to years while it is establishing itself) - Dietary problems (any poor diet may affect periods and specifically if too high in carbohydrates) - Sexual activity (especially any new occurrence) - Too much exercise - Anxiety about pregnancy - Break in routine - Drugs (recreational or prescribed) - Illness

Long-term irregular menstrual cycles may present with bleeding that varies in length from month to month, or with long gaps of no periods and then coming too frequently, to excessive bleeding for weeks at a time or spotting in between periods. A visit to your doctor or gynecologist is imperative right in the beginning to rule out any more serious causes of irregular menstrual cycles such as:

- PCOS (polycystic ovaries)

- Uterine abnormalities (fibroids, endometriosis etc)

In treatment of irregular menstrual cycles the natural approach is preferred where your body’s natural ability is allowed to re-establish ovulation and balance itself. A good quality multivitamin and mineral forms the foundation in managing irregular menstrual cycles, to which is added specific nutrients.

- B-complex (stress vitamins)

- Antioxidants (Vitamin A, C and E as well as Selenium) are particularly relevant with irregular menstrual cycles and have a protective function where cells of the endometrial lining become abnormal.

- Essential fatty acids (Linseed oil contains both Omega-3 and 6)

- Magnesium (natural tranquillizer)

- Herbs like chase tree and dong gui are useful for correcting hormonal imbalance in irregular menstrual cycles (be careful when taking with any hormonal treatment such as HRT, fertility drugs or the pill).

Remember that smoking and a chronically exhausted body is likely to lead to irregular menstrual cycles.