Irregular Periods
Hormones & Women's HealthUterine cancer. Ovarian cancer. Thyroid cancer. Endometrial hyperplasia.
Stress (the #1 cause of cycle disruption). Significant weight changes. Perimenopause (can start in the 40s). Over or under-exercising. PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome — very common, affects 1 in 10 women). Thyroid imbalance (easily tested and treated).
🧠 The full picture
A "regular" cycle is anywhere from 21-35 days. Variation of a few days is completely normal month to month. Stress, travel, illness, and hormonal shifts all affect timing. Persistent irregularity over several months warrants investigation — mostly to find a treatable cause, not a scary one.
⚠️ When to actually call your doctor
These are real red flags. If any of these apply, don't wait.
- Heavy bleeding soaking a pad an hour for several hours
- Periods completely stopped for 3+ months and not pregnant
- Bleeding between periods or after menopause
- Accompanied by significant pelvic pain
- Rapidly worsening over a few months
📚 Sources
This information is based on guidance from:
Always verify important health decisions with your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider.