Irregular periods, cramps, trying to conceive
Question
I have irregular periods. When I have abdominal cramps before the onset of the periods, my periods are normal and last for about 7-8 days. But when there is no pain my periods start with spotting that lasts for about a week or so, then there is a heavy flow for about 10-12 days and then again spotting, for a total of almost 20-22 days. My periods also come after two or three months. I have been trying to conceive for the last two years but with no success. Please help!
Answer
Last Updated: July 22, 2013
Your pain before your periods could be from “ordinary” cramps that could be improved by dietary changes, reducing animal fats, and emphasizing foods or supplements containing Omega-3 fatty acids (fish, flax oil), as well as magnesium. Another possible cause of cramps is endometriosis. Your spotting could be due to low progesterone, or possibly a growth such as a fibroid or polyp. Since you have not become pregnant in two years, you need at the very least hormone tests and an ultrasound to check for fibroids. The spotting, cramps and fertility problems could all be related, and could all be treatable with medications, surgery or both.
Dr. Mary Davenport
Dr. Mary Davenport
Answered By:
Mary Davenport, MD, MS
Mary Davenport, MD, FACOG, an obstetrician/gynecologist from the Oakland Region of California, offers telehealth services over MyCatholicDoctor.com She graduated from Tufts University School of Medicine and completed her residency at UC San Diego. Dr. Davenport is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and serves on the Advisory Board of the California Association of Natural Family Planning.
