Does polycystic ovary syndrome cause irregular periods?

PCOS can disrupt the hormone signals that lead to ovulation. Ovulation may happen less often, later than expected, or not in some cycles, so periods can arrive far apart, vary in flow, or be missed. Some people also notice acne, excess facial hair, or changes linked with insulin regulation. Irregular bleeding can have other explanations, including pregnancy, thyroid conditions, stress, changes in weight, intense exercise, perimenopause, or certain medicines.

Make an appointment if your cycle pattern has changed, periods are repeatedly absent, or bleeding is difficult to predict. Record cycle dates, bleeding flow, pain, pregnancy possibility, medicines, and associated symptoms. Your clinician may review your history, examine you, and request tests to assess hormones, thyroid function, pregnancy, or anaemia. Treatment depends on symptoms, health needs, and whether you are trying to conceive.

Seek urgent medical help for severe pelvic pain, fainting, heavy bleeding with weakness, or bleeding during a possible pregnancy. Arrange timely review if periods stop for a prolonged spell, because the womb lining may need protection and the reason for absent bleeding should be assessed.

Ask whether your cycle pattern meets the clinical features of PCOS, which alternative causes need testing, how to protect the womb lining, and how treatment changes if pregnancy is a goal.