Abnormal periods… Do you have a normal menstrual cycle or an irregular menstrual cycle? Maybe you have been wondering why irregular periods have been happening and if there’s something you can do about it. Maybe you’re worried it is the sign of a larger problem. There are answers for your questions and our doctors ready to help!
What Is Considered an Irregular Menstrual Cycle?
Many things related to the menstrual cycle could be considered irregular, like periods lasting more than 7 days, bleeding or spotting between periods, or missing periods 3 or more months in a row. Basically, anything that occurs outside of your normal menstrual cycle or period experience is considered irregular.
However, abnormalities can rise to a more serious level than a slight irregularity. These include things like a period stopping completely, severe pain during a period, or abnormal uterine bleeding. Both minor irregularities and more serious abnormalities can be concerning, and you should talk to your doctor if you start to experience either.
What Causes Irregular Menstrual Cycles?
Many everyday things can contribute to abnormal periods like stress or anxiety, weight loss or weight gain, and illness. Any disruption in normal life routines can upset the regularity of periods or cycles. Birth control medication is also a common cause of abnormal periods because it affects hormone levels and the reproductive system. It is also not unusual for women to have irregular or even missed periods for up to 6 months after stopping birth control pills.
How Do You Know If Something Is Wrong?
Sometimes irregular periods can be a sign of other issues like uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, or endometriosis. However, the important thing is to contact your doctor right away, especially if you are experiencing very heavy bleeding, severe pain or fever, or extreme nausea including vomiting and fainting during your period. You can find out more about how The Woman’s Clinic approaches treatment of painful periods here.
The doctors at The Woman’s Clinic are here to help you, so don’t suffer through irregular or abnormal periods; make an appointment today.
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