What should I do if I have irregular periods?

Irregular periods may mean that bleeding arrives earlier or later than expected, lasts for changing lengths of time, becomes unusually light or heavy, or is skipped. The pattern can reflect changes in ovulation, hormonal conditions, stress, weight change, illness, medication, perimenopause, or reduced ovarian function. A symptom pattern cannot diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome or another condition by itself.

Keep a record of the first day of each bleed, how long it lasts, flow changes, pain, spotting, and any new symptoms. Note pregnancy possibility, contraception, medicines, exercise or weight changes, acne, increased facial hair, hot flushes, or nipple discharge. A clinician may use this history and decide whether examination or tests are useful. Do not start hormone treatment or supplements without advice.

Book an appointment when your usual pattern changes, periods repeatedly stop, or irregularity affects your daily life or pregnancy plans. Seek prompt care for bleeding after sex, severe pelvic pain, fever, faintness, or very heavy bleeding. Take a pregnancy test when pregnancy is possible, including when bleeding is unusual rather than absent.

Ask what might explain your pattern, whether you may be ovulating, and which symptoms should be monitored. If polycystic ovary syndrome is being considered, ask how it would be assessed and whether options such as the combined pill or metformin for PCOS are relevant to your goals.