Irregular Periods

What are irregular periods?

The definition of irregular periods is vaginal bleeding occurring outside of your regular period. Irregular periods include:

• Periods that vary in length significantly
• Extremely heavy periods 
• Spotting or vaginal bleeding after intercourse
• Spotting or vaginal bleeding between menstrual cycles

Menstrual cycles shorter than 21 days or longer than 40 days also qualify as irregular periods. A menstrual cycle is counted from the first day of one period to the first day of your next period. The average menstrual cycle is 28 days but can range anywhere from 21 to 35 days in adults and 21 to 45 days in young teens. A normal period lasts between two and seven days.

What causes irregular periods?

Irregular periods may occur at any time and can be the result of a wide range of underlying factors or problems, including:

Hormone-related conditions 

A thyroid condition, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), starting or stopping hormonal birth control may be the cause of irregular periods. Post-menopausal hormone replacement therapy may also be the reason you experience irregular periods.

Noncancerous growths 

A variety of noncancerous growths can cause irregular periods. Endometrial, uterine, and cervical polyps can cause spotting or heavy bleeding. Uterine fibroids also cause irregular periods.

Pregnancy 

Irregular periods can sometimes be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy. Some women experience irregular periods during early pregnancy as the hormone levels change. If you have severe pelvic pain and a positive pregnancy test, please go to the nearest emergency room. Any vaginal bleeding experienced when you are pregnant is a reason to schedule an appointment at Ideal Gynecology, LLC.  

Infections

A number of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), infections, and cancerous conditions can cause irregular periods, including gonorrhea, chlamydia, vaginitis, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), among others. Abnormal bleeding may also be a symptom of cervical, uterine, ovarian, or vaginal cancer, or a precancerous condition called endometrial hyperplasia.

How are irregular periods treated?

Treating irregular periods requires an accurate diagnosis. When you visit Ideal Gynecology, LLC, with irregular periods, your provider takes a medical history and performs a comprehensive physical exam. In some cases, they may order laboratory tests, an ultrasound, or an endometrial biopsy.

An IUD with progesterone, hormonal birth control, a polypectomy or an endometrial ablation may be right to treat your irregular periods. Some women receive prescription medication designed to control heaving bleeding. Depending on the cause of your bleeding, you may be a candidate for a progesterone IUD or an endometrial ablation. 

To find out the cause of your irregular periods and receive treatment, schedule an appointment online, or call Ideal Gynecology, LLC, today.