Does Lexapro cause irregular periods? (3 tips)

In this article, we will explore whether Lexapro causes irregular periods. We will also take a look at the research studies on the potential connection between Lexapro and irregular periods and review some of the factors that may cause irregular periods, while also discussing its management.

Does Lexapro cause irregular periods?

Yes, the use of Lexapro can lead to irregular periods. However, this side effect of Lexapro is not common.

Women may suffer from irregularity in their normal menstrual cycle and experience missed periods, increased or decreased duration between menstrual cycles, prolonged bleeding, periods accompanied by severe pain, cramps, nausea and vomiting and heavy or light bleeding (1).

What is the potential connection between Lexapro and irregular periods?

Antidepressants such as citalopram, escitalopram, sertraline, paroxetine etc. used to treat depression have the potential to cause irregular periods by interfering with the menstrual cycle.

Escitalopram (Lexapro), which is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, can cause the release of high levels of a hormone, called prolactin (2).

Prolactin affects the nerves involved in the hormone release from the brain. Elevated levels of prolactin prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs by blocking the release of follicular-stimulating hormones (FSH), resulting in a missed period as menstruation does not occur (3).

What does research suggest?

According to a study based on the data collected from three centres and four hospitals, menstrual disorders were substantially more common in the antidepressant group than in the control group.

Menstrual cycle irregularities caused by antidepressants occurred in 14.5% of cases and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors were the antidepressants most frequently involved (4).

In a case report, menstrual bleeding was observed in a postmenopausal woman who was taking escitalopram (Lexapro) for depression (5).

What additional factors besides Lexapro lead to irregular periods?

Numerous factors, such as pregnancy, hormone imbalances, infections, illnesses, trauma and certain medications, might result in irregular menstruation (6). Some of the causes are:

• Eating disorders namely anorexia nervosa or bulimia
• Hyperthyroidism
• Hypothyroidism
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Elevated levels of prolactin hormone
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Uterine fibroids and endometrial polyps
• Birth control pills and injections
• Intrauterine devices (IUD)
• Antiepileptics and antidepressants
• Stress
• Excessive exercise

What is the relationship between depression and irregular periods?

Various research studies have shown that people suffering from depression are more susceptible to irregular periods. When someone is depressed, a stress hormone known as cortisol is released which serves as a messenger and influences the hypothalamus, a part of the brain.

The hypothalamus releases a hormone called gonadotrophin-releasing hormone that stimulates the release of an egg from the ovaries.

However, due to the influence of cortisol on the hypothalamus, the signal is altered, leading to delayed ovulation (7). As a result, the person suffering from depression will experience a delayed or no period at all.

What to do if Lexapro causes irregular periods?

• If you notice abnormalities in your menstrual cycle, you should consult a medical professional.
• Referrals to the gynaecology clinic are required to properly assess the patient.
• Gynaecological examinations, radiologic studies, and blood and coagulation tests should be performed to detect any underlying gynecologic pathology.
• Dose adjustments should be made to assist the patient if Lexapro is the reason for irregular periods.
• The doctor should consider switching to another antidepressant, such as paroxetine or sertraline if irregular menstruation persists.

Which lifestyle changes can help with irregular periods while on Lexapro?

Some lifestyle factors that can help regulate periods include:

• Exercise and Meditation: Regular physical activities such as running, yoga, jogging and meditation can lower the stress hormone levels in the body and promote relaxation.

• Ample sleep: Adequate sleep plays an important role in hormone regulation. So, getting an ample amount of sleep can help regulate the menstrual cycle.

• Healthy Diet: A balanced diet high in iron-rich vegetables, fruits, nuts, fish and lean meat can help in regulating periods and also provide relief from premenstrual symptoms.

Conclusion

In this article, we discussed that Lexapro does cause irregular periods. However, it should be noted that according to research studies, not everyone experiences irregularity in their menstrual cycle while using antidepressants.

Moreover, certain factors may also cause irregular menstruation. If the condition persists and is interfering with your everyday life, you should consult a doctor.

References