Why are times between some of my menstrual periods long?

Last updated on October 21, 2020

Question:

Why are times between some of my menstrual periods long?

Answer:

A woman’s monthly cycle typically is 21 to 32 days, but numerous things can affect the cycle. Remember that a woman’s cycle is regulated by a series of hormones being released. Anything interfering with those hormones will impact the cycle, such as:

  • Gaining weight
  • Losing weight
  • Not getting enough sleep
  • Stress
  • Prolong, heavy exercise
  • Illness

Especially during your teenage years when the cycle of your hormones is not regular, it is common to experience monthly cycles of varying lengths and to even miss a period once in a while.