It is quite common during your childbearing years to have an irregular menstrual cycle at some point. Irregular menstrual cycles can come about due to lifestyle changes or changes in your body. Certain medications can cause you to miss your menstrual cycle, especially if these medications are prescribed to manipulate the sex hormones. Over-the-counter supplements should not cause you to miss your menstrual cycle.
Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle is controlled by four hormones: luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are secreted in specific ranges to control menstruation and ovulation. The menstrual cycle is an average of 28 days long with up to five days of bleeding. Due to stress, illness, rapid weight gain or rapid weight loss, the menstrual cycle can become irregular.
Vitamin Uses
Vitamins are naturally found in a variety of foods, and they are added into foods such as cereal or juices. People take vitamin supplements to reduce the risk of developing malnutrition or vitamin deficiencies. Certain vitamin deficiencies can cause significant health damage or anemia.
Side Effects
Depending on the vitamin you take, each has its own side effects. As a blanket side effect, most vitamin supplements can cause nausea or headache. Multivitamins that contain the mineral calcium or iron can cause additional abdominal discomfort and constipation. When multivitamins or vitamin supplements are taken within the recommended dietary allowance, they will not alter your menstrual cycle. However, overdosing on vitamins or minerals can cause changes in the hormones and shock the body, which can affect the menstrual cycle.
Considerations
If you miss your menstrual cycle for more than a week, consult with your physician. A missed menstrual cycle could be the sign of pregnancy or impending menopause. If you've taken more than the tolerable upper limit of any vitamin and feel ill, seek emergency care immediately. Vitamin toxicity can lead to nerve damage and, in severe cases, death.
