Can low body weight cause irregular periods at 21?

Question

Hello doctor,

My age is 21, and my health issues are low weight (68 pounds) and irregular periods and a breast tumor

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern, and I will definitely help you with it. Based on the details you mentioned, your body weight is quite low for your age, and this requires proper medical evaluation because being underweight can sometimes affect hormonal balance and overall health.

Undernutrition and low body weight may lead to low hemoglobin levels and anemia, and in many young women this can result in irregular periods, reduced menstrual flow, weakness, and fatigue. Stress on the body due to poor nutrition can also disturb normal hormonal function and menstrual cycles.

You have also mentioned a breast lump or breast tumor, which should not be ignored and definitely needs further examination to identify the exact cause. Many breast lumps in young women can be benign (non-cancerous), but proper evaluation is still important before deciding on treatment.

Before starting any medication, I would advise the following investigations:

Complete blood count (CBC) with ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate).
Mammography or breast ultrasound of both breasts to rule out any serious condition.
Serum TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) test.

You have not mentioned whether the lump is painful, mobile, soft, or hard, which are important details for diagnosis.

Meanwhile, try to improve your nutrition by increasing carbohydrate-rich foods like rice, potatoes, and chapati. If you are non-vegetarian, eggs and protein-rich foods may also help improve your weight and overall health.

The probable cause may be anemia and nutritional deficiency, but proper investigations are necessary for confirmation

Hope I have addressed all of your queries and concerns.

Do follow up whenever needed.

Thank you.