Irregular Periods & Light Spotting: Causes & What to Do

Question
My period was two weeks late and I am now having light spotting. I did take a pregnancy test and it was negative. My last period was much the same. Am I pregnant or might there be something else wrong?

Answer
Dear Kelly,

I would suspect that your altered periods are likely due to a bit of a hormonal imbalance - as most cycle irregularities are. This happens occasionally for all women - even those who are usually like "clockwork". There are many various potential causes for irregularities in our cycles. They are:
-Significant weight gain or loss
-Excessive or strenuous exercise
-Poor nutrition (or a diet too high in carbohydrates)
-Smoking
-Drug use
-Excessive caffeine intake
-Excessive alcohol use (interfering with how the liver metabolizes estrogen and
progesterone)
-Eating disorders
-Increased stress
-Polycystic ovarian syndrome/estrogen dominance
-Uterine abnormalities (fibroids/cysts/polyps/endometriosis)
-Hormonal imbalance related to perimenopause
-Medications
-Chemotherapy
-Thyroid dysfunction
-Recent childbirth, miscarriage, or D&C
-Breastfeeding

More than likely your cycles will return to a fairly normal pattern, but keep in mind that, if you continue to have scant periods and/or consistent cycle irregularities, you should definitely see your doctor. Scant periods, being overweight, and experiencing acne or excess facial hair growth may indicate PCOS - polycystic ovarian syndrome.  So if these symptoms/cycle irregularities continue, you should see your doctor so that a cause can be determined.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda