All females go through their menstrual cycle from puberty to menopause. Generally, women only experience one menstrual period a month, usually lasting between 3 and 7 days. If you have ever experienced two periods in one month, you may be wondering why. Continue reading to find out the possible causes of this.

Causes of Having Two Periods in One Month

Here are over 10 possible explanations for why you have two periods in just one month:

1. A Natural and Regular Menstrual Cycle

A natural menstrual cycle can last anywhere between 21 to 25 days. This means that a woman can have her period every 3 weeks, meaning she would consistently experience two periods in one month, one at the beginning of a month and one at the end of it. This is entirely natural and requires no medical attention.

2. Puberty

Two periods in one month is entirely normal for girls who are going through, or who have recently gone through puberty. It can take many months and even years for teenage girls' cycles to become regular.

3. Hormonal Imbalance

An imbalance of hormone like thyroid dysfunction can also cause increased frequency in a woman's period. This is particularly apparent in women who are going through menopause, so it can be an indication of the onset of the menopause process.

Hormonal therapy is usually successful in regulating a woman’s natural menstrual cycle if this becomes a regular occurrence.

4. Abnormal Mass

Two periods in one month can also be caused by abnormal masses in the uterus, such as fibroids or cysts. These masses can cause discomfort and pain, as well as disrupting a woman's normal menstrual cycle.

Medication can be used to help ease symptoms, but surgery is most commonly needed to remove the masses.

5. Thickening of Uterine Lining

Abnormal thickening of the uterine lining can also cause a woman to have two periods in one month. Thickening of the uterine lining can be caused by numerous things, like hormonal imbalance or consumption of estrogen.

6. Other Causes for Having Two Periods in One Month

• Dramatic weigh change can disrupt the hormonal balance in the body, which is responsible for period regulation.
• Extreme exercise can also disrupt the body's hormones.
• Stress, no matter what the cause, can lead to a temporary change in your menstrual cycle.
• Some illnesses and/or medications can affect your menstrual cycle. Be sure to speak with your doctor if you believe this to be the cause. If this is the cause, you should stop taking the medication or find alternatives and treat the underlying diseases.
• A symptom of some STDs is vaginal bleeding or discharge, which can be mistaken for a period.
• Reaction to contraception: Certain types of contraceptive methods, such as the contraceptive pill, can affect your menstrual cycle.

When to Seek Professional Help

In certain instances, two periods in one month can indicate a severe medical condition. It is vital that you consult your health care professional if you notice any changes in your natural cycle.

If you are experiencing heavy bleeding, and/or more cramping and pain than normal, then it would be most advisable to visit your doctor. The same is true if large dark clots are being discharged, and this does not usually happen during your period. Besides, excessive bleeding can be an indication of numerous, severe health conditions, including anemia.