Menstrual Irregularities

Changes in your menstrual cycle can be a sign that something in your body needs attention. Whether your periods are too heavy, too light, come too often, or not at all, menstrual irregularities are common and treatable.

Understanding the cause of your symptoms is the first step toward finding relief and restoring balance.

What Is Considered an Irregular Period?

Everyone’s cycle is different, but a typical menstrual cycle lasts between 21 and 35 days. Variations can happen from time to time, but consistent or significant changes may signal an underlying issue.

Common types of menstrual irregularities include:

  • Amenorrhea – no periods for several months
  • Oligomenorrhea – infrequent periods (more than 35 days between cycles)
  • Menorrhagia – heavy or prolonged bleeding
  • Polymenorrhea – periods occurring too frequently
  • Spotting or bleeding between periods
  • Severe menstrual cramps or pain (dysmenorrhea)

Tracking your cycle and symptoms over time can help you and your provider pinpoint patterns and causes.

Causes of Irregular Periods

A wide range of factors can affect your menstrual cycle. These may include:

Hormonal causes:

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Thyroid imbalances (hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism)
  • Perimenopause or menopause
  • Birth control or hormone therapy changes
  • Elevated prolactin levels

Gynecologic conditions:

Other contributing factors:

  • Stress or major life changes
  • Eating disorders or extreme weight changes
  • Very high or low BMI
  • Low calorie intake
  • Excessive exercise
  • Certain medications
  • Underlying chronic illnesses

Identifying the cause is key to choosing the right treatment.

When to See a Provider

Occasional changes in your period are normal, especially during adolescence, after pregnancy, or around menopause. But you should schedule a visit if you:

  • Miss more than three periods in a row (and are not pregnant)
  • Have very heavy bleeding or need to change pads/tampons every hour
  • Bleed for more than 7 days per cycle
  • Experience spotting between periods or after sex
  • Have severe cramps that limit your daily activities
  • Notice sudden changes in your cycle pattern

The earlier we evaluate your symptoms, the sooner we can help you feel better.

Diagnosis and Testing

Your provider will begin with a detailed discussion of your health history and menstrual patterns. To diagnose the cause, we may recommend:

  • Pelvic exam
  • Blood tests to check hormone levels
  • Ultrasound to evaluate the uterus and ovaries
  • Endometrial biopsy (in some cases)

Once we understand what’s behind the irregularity, we can create a personalized treatment plan.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on your diagnosis, age, lifestyle, and whether you’re planning to have children in the future.

Possible treatments include:

  • Hormonal birth control (pills, patch, ring, IUD) to regulate cycles
  • Medications for thyroid or other hormonal imbalances
  • Lifestyle changes such as weight management or stress reduction
  • Nutritional support and supplements
  • Treatment for underlying conditions like PCOS or fibroids
  • Surgery, in rare or severe cases

We’ll work closely with you to find the least invasive and most effective option.

Menstrual Health at Every Life Stage

Menstrual irregularities can occur at any age:

  • Teens may take a few years to establish regular cycles after puberty (which makes establishing a baseline even more important)
  • Women in their 20s and 30s may experience changes from contraception, stress, or medical conditions
  • Perimenopausal women may have increasingly irregular or heavier periods as hormone levels shift

Understanding what is and isn’t normal at each stage helps you stay informed and in control of your reproductive health.

You’re Not Alone

Many women live with uncomfortable or unpredictable periods, assuming it’s just something to tolerate. But menstrual irregularities are often signs of treatable conditions. With the right care, you can get answers and find relief.

If your cycle feels off, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment today to discuss your symptoms and explore treatment options.