What should I do about irregular periods?

Irregular periods can mean that ovulation is happening at changing times or is sometimes absent. Stress, weight changes, thyroid conditions, polycystic ovary syndrome, perimenopause, and premature ovarian insufficiency are possible explanations. The pattern matters: a long-standing variation is different from bleeding that suddenly becomes heavy, painful, or frequent. A symptom alone cannot identify the cause.

Record the first and last day of bleeding, flow, pain, spotting, medicines, and major changes in stress, exercise, or weight. Take a pregnancy test if pregnancy is possible. Book a clinician appointment if the pattern continues, interferes with daily life, or you are trying to conceive. Assessment may include a health history, examination, pregnancy testing, blood tests, or an ultrasound depending on your symptoms.

Seek prompt care for bleeding that soaks through protection repeatedly, severe pelvic pain, dizziness or fainting, bleeding during pregnancy, or bleeding after menopause. Do not wait for tracking to clarify a pattern when symptoms are sudden or intense.

Ask what your pattern suggests, whether anovulation or polycystic ovary syndrome should be considered, which tests are appropriate, and whether treatment is needed for bleeding, contraception, or fertility goals.