normalising abnormal cycles: let’s say bye bye to shame

Why hello there, angel.

In my last blog post, we chatted about cycle syncing and began to understand more about how our hormones affect how we feel, act, perform, and eat. And it got me thinking—so many women have ‘abnormal’ cycles, whether in terms of length, duration, experience, or linked to conditions such as PCOS or endometriosis.

In fact, what we’re often told is ‘abnormal’ is actually very common. One in ten women in the UK have endometriosis, 5–10% have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and between 5–8% are affected by premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). That’s not to mention irregularities in the menstrual cycle, which can ebb and flow throughout our reproductive years.

So today, I want to highlight some of these irregularities and make the ‘abnormal’ seem far more normal. The topic of periods has been de-stigmatised to some extent, but discussing the issues or challenges we face as menstruating women still carries an element of shame.

As someone diagnosed with PMDD three years ago, I’ve struggled at times to talk about the challenges I was facing. It made me feel like I was ‘less of a woman’ or that I lacked strength and resilience—when, in reality, I was battling an underlying condition that required treatment and medication.

Whatever your experience has been, know this: there is no shame in having a period or in struggling with symptoms, pain, and mood swings. If that shame is holding you back from getting the help and care you need, ask it to step aside while you seek support. Shame thrives in darkness—shine a light on it, and I promise, it won’t feel as scary as you think.

Right, now that overshare is out of the way, let’s get into the good stuff. Below, we’ll briefly run through some of the main hormonal and menstrual conditions to help you better understand them and empower you to support yourself or others—without shame.

PCOS

PCOS is a complex condition in which small follicles accumulate in the ovaries, preventing ovulation from occurring. The result? A disruption to the intricate dance our hormones perform each cycle. As a result, these sex hormones also interact differently with other hormones in the body.

There are four subtypes of PCOS, each with unique characteristics, but today we’ll focus on symptoms across the board:

• Irregular or absent periods

• Fertility issues

• Excessive hair growth (often on the face, chest, back, or bum)

• Weight gain and/or insulin resistance

• Hair thinning

• Oily skin or acne

Endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when endometrial cells (the ones that thicken in preparation for pregnancy and shed during a period) grow deep into the muscular wall of the uterus (adenomyosis) or outside the uterus, affecting other organs. These cells respond to hormonal fluctuations throughout the cycle, causing pain, bleeding, scarring, and other complications.

Symptoms depend on the location of the endometrial growth, but common signs include:

• Very painful periods

• Heavy bleeding

• Chronic pelvic pain

• Bladder pain and inflammation, especially during menstruation

• Vaginal and vulvar pain, particularly after penetrative sex

• Rectal pain and bleeding, as well as difficulty passing stools

• Swollen or bloated pelvic area

• Fertility issues

• Chest pain and congestion (if the endometrial cells have migrated to the chest cavity)

PMDD

PMDD is like PMS but significantly more intense, particularly in terms of mood and emotional symptoms. While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, it’s believed to stem from an abnormal sensitivity to the hormonal fluctuations in the menstrual cycle. In particular, the post-ovulation drop in oestrogen and progesterone—closely linked to brain chemicals such as serotonin—plays a role.

Symptoms can vary, but commonly include:

• Feelings of depression, hopelessness, and worthlessness

• Severe anxiety, both socially and generally

• Worsening of pre-existing mental health conditions, such as eating disorders

• Irritability and anger

• Overwhelm and a sense of losing control

• Large mood swings—going from sad to happy in minutes

• Sudden and intense tearfulness

• More severe physical symptoms, including water retention, gastrointestinal issues, and headaches

• Overeating or binge eating

• Insomnia and disrupted sleep

• Difficulty concentrating or staying engaged in daily activities

Irregular Periods & Amenorrhoea

A ‘typical’ cycle lasts around 28 days but can range from 21 to 35 days. However, up to 25% of menstruating women experience irregular periods—or none at all. But what exactly does ‘irregular’ mean?

• Less frequent periods

• Very short or very long cycles

• Heavy or light bleeding

• Severe period pain

• No period at all (amenorrhoea)

While these symptoms could indicate any of the conditions mentioned above, they can also be signals from your body. Irregular cycles can be a sign of stress, overworking, undernourishment, hormonal imbalances, excessive exercise, or underlying health issues. Use these changes as an opportunity to check in with yourself. Have there been any major shifts in your lifestyle? Have you started a new diet? Do you feel constantly exhausted? Are there any other symptoms that could point to a deeper health issue?

Our bodies are always communicating with us—it’s just a matter of whether we’re listening.

Feel Seen in One of the Above? Here’s What to Do Next

So, you’ve recognised some of these symptoms in yourself—what now? Here’s how to take the first steps towards understanding your body and regaining control.

1. Track Your Symptoms

Whether in a journal or using an app like Clue or Flo, track everything—the good and the bad—over a few months to identify patterns. Useful things to log include:

• Period flow, spotting, and discharge

• Pain levels

• Contraception and sexual activity

• Changes in appetite and eating habits

• Fatigue and energy levels

• Workout performance

• Emotions and mood swings

• Brain fog and concentration issues

This data will not only help you understand your body better but also serve as valuable evidence if you seek a diagnosis or treatment.

2. Speak to a Medical Professional

This is the step so many of us fear—asking for help. Your GP is a general practitioner, meaning they may not specialise in hormonal or menstrual conditions. However, they can explore treatment options and refer you to a specialist if needed. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.

3. Make Small Changes to Support Your Hormones

Every body is different, and working with your natural hormonal rhythms rather than against them is key. Look out for upcoming content where I’ll share practical ways to support your body.

An all-or-nothing approach isn’t necessary, and if someone promises a ‘miracle fix’, be cautious. Nutrition, movement, and lifestyle shifts won’t ‘cure’ conditions, but they can play a significant role in managing symptoms and improving overall wellbeing.

Whatever your experience, know that you are not alone. There is no shame in struggling with your cycle or seeking help. The more we talk about these things, the more we break the stigma and create a world where women can get the support they deserve.

So, let’s keep the conversation going—because our bodies deserve to be understood, respected, and cared for. Keep an eye out for my next bloggy and some exciting developments for my endometriosis girlies in the coming months! 

Love and kisses 

Jade