Women’s Health: Menstrual Irregularities
A healthy menstrual cycle is an important indicator of overall health. While every woman’s cycle is unique, significant changes in timing, flow, or symptoms may signal an underlying hormonal imbalance that deserves evaluation.
A typical menstrual cycle ranges from 21 to 35 days, with bleeding lasting approximately 2 to 7 days. Occasional variations are common, particularly during adolescence or the transition into menopause. However, persistent irregularities should not be ignored. Cycles should be consistent in terms of cycle and period lengths.
Common Types of Menstrual Irregularities
Menstrual irregularities may include:
- Missed or absent periods
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Very light periods
- Cycles that occur too frequently or too far apart
- Spotting between or before periods
- Painful menstruation
- Unpredictable cycle lengths
- Unsure if ovulation is occurring each month
What Causes Irregular Periods?
Many different factors can affect menstrual health, including:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Thyroid disorders
- Chronic stress
- Significant weight changes
- Excessive exercise
- Perimenopause
- Certain medications
- Pregnancy
- Uterine fibroids or endometriosis
Because many conditions produce similar symptoms, identifying the underlying cause is an essential first step.
Our Approach to Care
Rather than simply treating irregular periods, we work to understand why they are occurring. We begin with a comprehensive health history, review your symptoms, assess lifestyle factors, and may recommend laboratory testing when appropriate.
Treatment recommendations are personalized and may include nutritional support, lifestyle modifications, stress management strategies, targeted supplementation, or coordination with your primary care provider or gynecologist when additional evaluation is needed.
Supporting regular menstrual cycles often means supporting the body’s overall hormonal health.