What should you know about constant irregular periods?

An irregular cycle may come early, arrive late, last an unusual length, vary in flow, or be missed. Sometimes the ovaries do not release an egg, a pattern called anovulation. Polycystic ovary syndrome can affect ovulation and cycle regularity. Perimenopause may also make periods less predictable, while premature ovarian insufficiency can cause changing or absent periods earlier than expected. Pregnancy, changes in weight, intense exercise, stress, thyroid problems, and some medicines can also alter bleeding patterns.

The pattern itself does not identify one diagnosis. A clinician may ask about pregnancy possibility, contraception, acne or extra facial hair, hot flushes, pain, medical history, and the timing of each bleed.

Keep a simple record of the first day of bleeding, how long it lasts, whether the flow is light or heavy, pain, and any bleeding between periods. Note new medicines, contraception changes, breastfeeding, weight changes, and symptoms such as hot flushes or increased hair growth. If pregnancy is possible, take a pregnancy test and mention the result when arranging care.

Book a routine appointment if this pattern keeps happening, periods stop unexpectedly, or the change is new for you. Assessment may include a pregnancy test, examination, blood tests, or an ultrasound depending on your history. Treatment is directed at the cause; options can include cycle management with the combined pill or treatment such as metformin for PCOS when clinically appropriate.

Seek urgent medical help for very heavy bleeding, fainting, severe or one-sided pelvic pain, chest pain, breathlessness, or weakness. Get prompt advice for bleeding during pregnancy, bleeding after menopause, or irregular bleeding with fever or severe pain. These features need assessment because they can signal significant blood loss, infection, or a pregnancy-related problem.

Could my pattern suggest anovulation, polycystic ovary syndrome, perimenopause, or another cause? Which tests fit my symptoms? Could my contraception or medicines be affecting my cycle? What treatment would protect my health and fit my pregnancy plans?