Aumatma Simmons: Do You Have PCOS If Your Menstrual Cycle Is Irregular?
Aumatma Simmons, Co-Founder, Chief Fertility Officer at Madre Fertility, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“In reproductive endocrinology, irregular cycles are often reflexively attributed to PCOS without comprehensive evaluation. This diagnostic shortcut overlooks critical underlying pathophysiology.
Redefining ‘Normal’ Parameters:
While standard references cite 21-35 days as normal, optimal reproductive function typically requires 24-35 day cycles. Cycles under 24 days frequently indicate luteal insufficiency or accelerated follicular phases.
Comprehensive Differential Diagnosis:
- Neuroendocrine Factors:
- HPA axis dysfunction from chronic stress
- Subclinical thyroid disorders affecting ovulatory mechanisms
- Inflammatory Pathways:
- Systemic inflammation from autoimmune conditions
- Chronic infections disrupting reproductive hormones
- Metabolic Disruption:
- Relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs)
- Hypothalamic amenorrhea from caloric restriction
- Structural Abnormalities:
- Uterine fibroids or polyps
- Anatomical variants affecting menstrual flow
Clinical Red Flags:
- Cycles <22 or >34 days
- Anovulatory patterns
- Amenorrhea >3 months
The Treatment Gap:
Current standard care often employs hormonal suppression (oral contraceptives) rather than investigating etiology. This approach masks symptoms while the underlying pathology persists.
Evidence-Based Approach:
Comprehensive evaluation, including thyroid function, inflammatory markers, nutritional assessment, and stress hormone analysis, enables targeted therapeutic intervention.
Clinical Outcome: Root cause treatment yields superior long-term results compared to symptomatic management.
How are you approaching irregular cycles in your practice? Are we asking the right diagnostic questions?”
Proceed to the pages attached to the post.
Stay updated on all scientific advances in the field of fertility with Fertility News.
-
May 1, 2026, 03:13International Expert Recommendations in Emerging Reproductive Science – ESHRE
-
Apr 30, 2026, 18:45AI in Ultrasound Follicular Monitoring Moves Toward Clinical Decision Support – RBMO
-
Apr 30, 2026, 11:42ASRM Encourages Registration for Conference on Practice Growth and Innovation
-
Apr 30, 2026, 11:26ESHRE and ALPHA Launch Global Survey to Update ART Laboratory KPIs
-
Apr 30, 2026, 11:10Susanne Johnson: Advanced Gynaecology Ultrasound Course Day 2
-
Apr 30, 2026, 11:02Platelets Reduce Oxidative Stress Damage in Human Endometrial Stromal Cells in Vitro – RBMO
-
Apr 30, 2026, 10:57GREEG Day 2026: Elevate Your Ultrasound Expertise – GREEG
-
Apr 30, 2026, 10:49Up to Two-Thirds of Elite Female Athletes Experience Irregular Periods – Fertility Plus
-
Apr 30, 2026, 10:47Applications for the ESHRE5 Young Ambassadors 2026 are Still OPEN, But Not for Long! – ESHRE