Getting two periods in one month can be alarming. But in many cases, it simply reflects a hormonal imbalance that can often resolve on its own. This article explores the common causes, symptoms to watch for, and lifestyle changes and treatments that can help regulate your cycle.
What Does It Mean to Have 2 Periods in One Month?
- Having two menstrual cycles in one month is known as polymenorrhea
- It means you get your period, it ends, and then a second period starts days or weeks later
- Spotting or light bleeding between periods does not count as a second period
- To be polymenorrhea, you must have two distinct menstrual flows with more pronounced bleeding
What Causes 2 Cycles in One Month?
There are a few potential causes of having two periods in one single month:
Hormonal Imbalances
- Fluctuations in reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone can disrupt the menstrual cycle
- Common culprits include thyroid disorders, high stress levels, significant weight loss or gain, and starting or stopping hormonal birth control
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may also cause women to have more than one period per month
Uterine or Cervical Issues
- Growths in the uterus (like polyps or fibroids) or a thickened uterus lining can sometimes cause mid-cycle spotting
- Inflammation or irritation of the cervix may also lead to bleeding between regular periods
Pregnancy Complications
- In very rare cases, having two periods in one month may indicate an early miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy
- These situations usually cause other symptoms like abdominal pain and extreme fatigue
Other Factors
- In some cases, a teenage girl just beginning to menstruate may have irregular cycles close together
- Perimenopause marked by hormonal fluctuations may also lead to abnormal periods
Signs and Symptoms of 2 Periods in 1 Month
Along with getting two distinct menstrual flows in one cycle, other symptoms may signal an underlying issue:
- Unusually heavy, painful, or prolonged periods
- Bleeding or spotting between periods
- Abdominal bloating, pain, or discomfort
- Fatigue and mood changes
- Symptoms of thyroid dysfunction like weight changes and digestive issues
When to See a Doctor
Most cases of having two periods in one month resolve on their own, especially if you recently stopped taking hormonal birth control. But it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your doctor if you also experience:
- Severe pelvic pain or cramping
- Heavy bleeding lasting over 7 days
- Bleeding between periods for 3 months or more
- Difficulty conceiving
- Signs of pregnancy with abnormal bleeding
- Fatigue, weight changes, or other systemic symptoms
Checking in with your doctor can help determine if polymenorrhea is due to an underlying health condition requiring treatment.
Lifestyle Changes and Home Care
Making certain lifestyle adjustments and using at-home care strategies may help get your cycle back on track if hormones are out of balance:
At-Home Remedies
- Apply a heating pad to alleviate menstrual cramps and discomfort
- Consume ginger, cinnamon, or fennel tea to ease cramps and bloating
- Get light exercise like yoga, stretching, or brisk walking to reduce stress
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen to minimize pain
- Use a menstrual cup or double up on pads/tampons for heavier flows
Lifestyle Fixes
- Prioritize sleep and find healthy ways to manage stress through meditation, journaling, or breath work
- Maintain a moderate weight through a balanced, nutritious diet and regular exercise
- Limit caffeine, alcohol, salty foods and refined carbs before your period
- Take supplements like omega-3s, magnesium, vitamin B6, and Vitex chaste berry to support hormonal balance
Medical Treatments for Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
If self-care remedies don’t regulate your cycle within 3 months, your doctor may recommend medical treatment options:
Medications
- Hormonal birth control pills can prevent ovulation and stabilize uterine lining changes
- Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists switch off estrogen production
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) reduce heavy bleeding
- Antibiotics treat underlying uterine infections causing abnormal bleeding
Uterine Procedures
- Endometrial ablation thins the uterine lining to curb heavy bleeding
- Hysteroscopy removes uterine polyps or scar tissue causing bleeding
- Dilation and curettage (D&C) scoops out thickened uterine lining
In severe cases, surgical procedures like a hysterectomy may be necessary if bleeding remains uncontrolled.
Always discuss the pros and cons of medications or medical procedures with your doctor.
When to Consider an Online Consult with a Gynecologist
Connecting virtually with an OB-GYN or women’s health specialist can provide helpful input about managing abnormal bleeding and regulating your cycle through lifestyle measures and evidence-based treatments.
Consider booking an appointment for an online ayurvedic gynecology consultation if:
- You have tried the at-home remedies mentioned here without relief after 3 months
- Your abnormal bleeding signals a possible thyroid disorder, PCOS, or other systemic issue
- You hope to address hormonal imbalances through natural supplements and herbs
- You want to review prescription medication options to regulate your cycle and bleeding
- You need individualized lifestyle advice to support menstrual health from an expert
The Bottom Line
Noticing two distinct menstrual cycles in one month can definitely be puzzling and concerning. In most cases, polymenorrhea is due to temporary hormonal fluctuations that will resolve as your natural rhythms rebalance. But persistent bleeding abnormalities, especially along with pain, fatigue or other symptoms, deserves further evaluation.
Lifestyle measures like stress and weight management, proper sleep and nutrition, and targeted supplements can gently optimize your hormonal environment. For stubborn menstrual problems or systemic issues causing ongoing abnormal bleeding, consult your doctor or book an online women’s health consultation to craft an integrated treatment plan personalized to your needs.
