The average menstrual cycle is 28 days, but when your period is too long, or too short, or you notice spotting between periods, it’s crucial to know when to check in with a healthcare provider.
At Ideal Gynecology in Greater Atlanta, Georgia, our compassionate team of women’s health specialists is dedicated to supporting women and providing a high level of care. It isn't uncommon to experience menstrual irregularities once in a while. However, there are signs to look out for that signal something more may be going on.
Some women have periods that show up like clockwork each month, but when is a period considered irregular? The following are signs that you’re dealing with irregular periods:
Periods that vary significantly in length from one cycle to the next are also considered irregular.
Many factors influence the menstrual cycle, including stress, weight changes, and exercise. However, changes in hormones are the most common cause of menstrual irregularities. This could be fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, or overproduction of androgens. Issues associated with hormone imbalance include:
Additionally, underlying conditions such as uterine fibroids (noncancerous growths) can cause irregular periods.
Endometriosis or endometrial hyperplasia can lead to irregular bleeding between periods, as the uterine lining behaves abnormally or becomes excessively thick.
Sudden weight loss or gain, and chronic stress can all affect your menstrual cycle. Even travel and disrupted sleep cycles can temporarily alter hormone levels.
Some causes of irregular periods are temporary, and others require medical attention. If your cycle is consistently irregular, it’s wise to visit a women’s health provider. Occasional irregularity isn’t always a concern, but persistent changes should never be ignored.
Your menstrual cycle provides a window into your reproductive and hormonal health. Irregular bleeding may indicate ovulation issues, making it harder to conceive, or signal conditions like PCOS, thyroid dysfunction, or precancerous changes in the uterine lining.
Tracking the timing, flow, and any associated symptoms of your cycle gives your provider valuable information to pinpoint potential causes.
At Ideal Gynecology, we take a comprehensive approach to menstrual irregularities. During your visit, our team reviews your medical history, performs a pelvic exam, and may recommend tests such as hormone panels, thyroid screening, ultrasound imaging, or an endometrial biopsy.
Treatment will be based on the underlying cause and may involve:
Additionally, endometrial ablation, offered in-office, can effectively treat heavy or prolonged bleeding caused by uterine abnormalities.
Irregular periods aren’t something you just have to live with. Getting to the root of the issue can improve your comfort, fertility, and long-term wellness.
The Ideal Gynecology team will support you in understanding what your bleeding pattern is telling you and create a plan for hormonal balance.
If you’re dealing with irregular periods, reach out to our office to schedule a visit with Ideal Gynecology today.
