Is a menstrual cycle consistently lasting 21 days due to being too thin?

Nov 05, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In general, a menstrual cycle consistently lasting 21 days may be due to being underweight, individual variation, intense physical exercise, endocrine disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or other factors. During menstruation, it is important to maintain personal hygiene, follow a regular sleep schedule, engage in gentle exercise, eat a balanced diet, and avoid excessive fatigue.

Generally, a menstrual cycle consistently lasting 21 days may be due to being underweight, individual variation, intense physical exercise, endocrine disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or other factors. If discomfort occurs, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Being Underweight

Being underweight may result from long-term insufficient caloric intake or stress-induced loss of appetite. This can lead to low body fat levels, which may impair estrogen synthesis and storage, thereby disrupting the regulatory function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis and shortening the follicular phase, resulting in a 21-day menstrual cycle. It is important to maintain a balanced diet and avoid picky eating habits.

2. Individual Variation

Some women naturally have faster follicular development and a shorter follicular phase, leading to a shorter menstrual cycle. If a woman consistently has a stable 21-day cycle with normal menstruation duration and flow, and experiences no discomfort, this may be considered within the range of normal variation and typically requires no special treatment.

3. Intense Physical Exercise

Intense exercise can deplete energy reserves, trigger stress responses, disrupt the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, affect estrogen secretion, and shorten the menstrual cycle, possibly resulting in a 21-day cycle. It is recommended to adjust exercise intensity, avoid overtraining, and ensure adequate rest and recovery time.

4. Endocrine Disorders

Endocrine imbalances caused by excessive fatigue, staying up late, or similar factors can interfere with the secretion and regulation of sex hormones, leading to a consistently shortened menstrual cycle of 21 days. This may also be accompanied by symptoms such as increased pigmentation, insomnia, and vivid dreams. Treatment under medical guidance may include medications such as Xiaoyao Pills, Wuji Baifeng Pills, or Tanshinone Injection.

5. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is usually caused by an interaction of genetic, environmental, and endocrine-metabolic factors, characterized by multiple small cysts in the ovaries. This condition disrupts the balance of estrogen and androgen, potentially resulting in a 21-day menstrual cycle, along with symptoms such as obesity, hirsutism, and acne. Patients may take medications such as Levonorgestrel Tablets, Compound Norethisterone Tablets, or Dexamethasone Tablets as directed by a physician.

6. Endometriosis

Endometriosis may be caused by retrograde menstruation, uterine procedures, or immune system abnormalities. It can trigger inflammation and immune responses that affect hormone levels and ovarian function, thereby disrupting the normal menstrual cycle. Symptoms may include dysmenorrhea and difficulty with bowel movements. Treatment options under medical advice may include Dienogest Tablets, Gestrinone Capsules, or Mifepristone Tablets.

During menstruation, it is important to maintain personal hygiene, follow a regular sleep schedule, engage in gentle exercise, eat a balanced diet, and avoid excessive fatigue.

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