Why aren’t my periods stopping?

A missed period can follow pregnancy, breastfeeding, major stress, marked changes in eating or exercise, weight change, or an illness. Hormonal contraception can also alter bleeding. Around menopause, periods often become less predictable before stopping; this transition is explained in Menopause.

If periods stop earlier than expected, clinicians may consider Premature Ovarian Insufficiency. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can disrupt ovulation, while Turner Syndrome may affect ovarian development. These possibilities cannot be sorted out from the bleeding pattern alone.

If pregnancy is possible, take a pregnancy test and record the first day of your last period. Note medicines, contraception, recent stress, weight or activity changes, hot flushes, breast discharge, headaches, or new facial hair. Arrange a medical review if the change persists, keeps recurring, or worries you; an assessment may include a history, examination, and selected tests.

Seek urgent help for severe or one-sided pelvic pain, fainting, shoulder-tip pain, or heavy bleeding with weakness, especially if pregnancy is possible. Contact a clinician promptly for bleeding after a long gap without periods, new severe headaches or vision changes, or symptoms suggesting anaemia.

Ask what causes fit your age and history, whether pregnancy or medication could explain the change, which tests are appropriate, and how long to monitor before treatment. You can also ask whether the symptom should be reviewed alongside Periods Stopped.