I Am Having Irregular Periods: What Should I Know?

A cycle may become irregular when ovulation does not happen consistently, a pattern called anovulation. Polycystic ovary syndrome can affect ovulation and may occur with acne, increased facial hair, or difficulty becoming pregnant. Perimenopause commonly brings changing cycle timing and flow. Premature ovarian insufficiency can cause irregular or absent periods before the usual menopausal transition.

Stress, major changes in exercise or eating, thyroid problems, some medicines, and hormonal contraception can also alter bleeding. The pattern is more informative than one unusual cycle: note whether periods are widely spaced, unexpectedly close together, unusually heavy, or absent.

Track the first day of each period, the number of bleeding days, flow changes, pain, spotting, and symptoms such as hot flushes, acne, or unwanted hair growth. Take a pregnancy test if pregnancy is possible. Book a clinical assessment when irregularity continues, returns after a previously predictable pattern, affects daily life, or matters for pregnancy planning. Your clinician may review medicines and contraception, check for pregnancy, and consider blood tests or imaging based on your symptoms.

Get urgent help for very heavy bleeding, faintness, severe pelvic pain, fever, or bleeding with a possible pregnancy. Arrange prompt care if bleeding follows menopause or if you have new severe pain with a missed period. Do not wait for cycle tracking to finish when symptoms are intense or rapidly worsening.

Ask: Does my pattern suggest inconsistent ovulation or another cause? Should I be tested for pregnancy, thyroid changes, or PCOS? Could my contraception or medicine be affecting my cycle? What treatment options fit my bleeding goals and pregnancy plans? If metformin or the combined pill is discussed, ask what symptom or cycle change it is intended to address.