What is an irregular period?
Menstrual cycles can vary considerably from one woman to another. In general, most women have a period every 21-35 days, with the duration ranging from 2-7 days on average.
If your period occurs more or less frequently, or is longer or shorter than those averages, it’s called an irregular period.
What causes irregular periods?
There are many causes of irregular periods, with the most common ones being:
- Thyroid disorders
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Hormone imbalance
- Being either underweight or obese
- Uterine fibroids
- Endometriosis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Cervical cancer
Perimenopause — the transition into menopause as you leave your childbearing years — is one of the most common causes of irregular periods. But, it’s important to know that perimenopause isn’t a disorder or disease. It’s a natural part of aging and one that frequently includes irregular periods.
When should I worry about irregular periods?
If your irregular periods cause painful symptoms like very heavy bleeding, or if you have other troublesome symptoms like mood swings along with the irregular periods, it’s time to talk to Dr. Stallings at MUST Clinic.
Dr. Stallings is an experienced women’s health provider who understands what you’re going through, and she can help you normalize your periods and reduce your intrusive symptoms.
What is the best treatment for irregular periods?
The best treatment for irregular periods depends on their root cause and how they’re affecting your life. For example, for irregular periods caused by hormone problems, a hormonal birth control method could regulate your cycle.
For irregular periods that occur as part of your menopause transition, Dr. Stallings can improve your symptoms in a variety of ways, including hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle changes, medication, and other options tailored for you.
In cases where your irregular periods occur due to an underlying condition, your treatment starts by addressing that problem. For example, if you have diabetes, you have an increased risk of irregular periods.
But, with proper chronic care like weight loss and medication management, you can prevent complications, improve disease outcomes, and regulate your periods at the same time.
MUST Clinic offers tailored compassionate support for irregular periods and other women’s health issues. Call the mobile clinic or click on the online appointment maker to book your visit with Dr. Stallings. All appointments start with a phone call.
