Irregular periods can indicate that you are ovulating inconsistently or, in some cases, not at all. As you already know, it is impossible to conceive without an egg, so the less you ovulate the less opportunities you have to conceive. If you do have irregular periods, it is certainly still possible to become pregnant. So what might be causing my irregular cycles? It is perfectly normal to experience some irregularity in your menstrual cycle from time to time, especially during stressful times or due to illness. For most women, cycle regularity will return once the stress and illness are resolved. For women with chronic irregularity, it is likely that there is an underlying hormonal imbalance (probably with estrogen and progesterone) that is impacting the frequency of ovulation and/or menstruation. While it is not always easy to identify why a hormonal imbalance is present, there are a couple of known causes of hormonal imbalances in trying to conceive women. Women who are battling eating disorders often have hormonal imbalances, which result in irregular or completely absent menstrual periods (called amenorrhea). In addition, women who exercise to excess (for example 3 hours per day of strenuous exercise) can become irregular. The lack of adequate nutrition resulting from anorexia and/or physical stress caused by excessive exercise can alter the chemistry of the brain, making it difficult for the brain to trigger the hormones necessary for follicle development. Lack of follicle development can cause estrogen deficiency. What can I do to improve my chances of getting pregnant? Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet: Try to incorporate more whole grains, fruits and vegetables and avoid foods that are high in refined carbohydrates and fat. You should also be exercising regularly and in moderation. Attain a healthy weight: If you are overweight, losing a few pounds through a moderate calorie restriction and moderate exercise can be very beneficial, especially if you have an ovulatory disorder. Take a fertility supplement: A fertility supplement like FertilAid for Women that contains a full prenatal vitamin formula and hormone-balancing herbs like Vitex might be just what you need to get your cycles back on track.* Pinpoint your fertile window: As there are only 4 or 5 days each cycle one can conceive, determining these fertile days is of great importance. For women with irregular periods, ovulation prediction can be a frustrating endeavor. If you're concerned about your irregular cycles, we'd recommend you reach out to your doctor to determine your next steps! Other Fertility Articles: Irregular Periods Indicate that you are Ovulating Inconsistently Predicting Ovulation and Fertility Charting Early Pregnancy Symptoms Fertility Health and Diet Antioxidants for Men: Optimizing His Swimmers A Needle in a Hay Stack…Finding Your Most Fertile Day FertilAid: A Rational Approach to Enhancing Fertility Beating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome with the Rule of 5 Five Reasons Why It Is Cool To Freeze Your Sperm Cervical Mucus, Creating the Pathway to Fatherhood
