When females are experiencing bleeding after they have received their first period, it is important to check if it is menstrual bleeding or spotting. One can differentiate with the color of the discharge since spotting is dark red/brown and menstrual blood is bright red in color. If the bleeding is able to soak up an entire tampon/pad, then it could be a second period in the same month. There are several factors responsible for causing two periods in a month, some of which are as follows:

Weight gain/weight loss: Gaining or reducing weight affects the hormones responsible for controlling the frequency and duration of the periods.

PCOS: PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome) is a condition under which small cysts are formed on the ovaries due to an imbalance in the hormones — the result of which is irregular periods.

Birth control pills: The consequence of eating birth control pills irregularly on the body can be a surprise bleeding which can happen in between the periods.

Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue lining the uterus grows beyond the uterus in the abdominal wall – leading to painful and irregular periods.

Other factors responsible for causing two periods in a month are pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, puberty, excessive, uterine issues, etc. Irregular periods are sometimes curable if the lifestyle is changed and the medical conditions are treated properly. Let us look at the measures that should be taken for dealing with the problem:

• Females should avoid the consumption of refined carbohydrates and junk foods. One should also avoid the intake of caffeinated and carbonated drinks to treat the problem of irregular periods. Including fruits and leafy vegetables in the diet is suggested. Being hydrated by drinking plenty of water can also help in dealing with the problem.

• One should drink herbal drinks such as Aloe Vera juice and ginger juice to handle the problem of irregular periods. The intake of powdered jaggery and sesame seeds in the diet is also suggested.

• Stress leads to irregular periods and treating the problem of stress through measures like yoga, meditation and listening to music can be helpful in regulating the irregular periods.

• Females should avoid excessive drinking and smoking in order to avoid the problem of irregular periods.

Apart from following these measures, one should try and maintain a proper period calendar. Keeping a record of the last period and the nature of the bleeding will help the doctors in detecting the underlying issue. The doctor can suggest in case any medicines/surgery is required for the treatment of irregular periods and to prevent the development of anemia.