How Do I Know If My Period Is Irregular?

If you've ever wondered whether your menstrual cycle is irregular or simply part of the natural variations, you're not alone. 

At HealthKey Group, our specialist, Nikki Yu, L.Ac, and our dedicated team take a comprehensive approach to understand the factors affecting your health, crafting personalized plans tailored to your needs. We specialize in acupuncture, Chinese medicine, and infertility and reproductive medicine.

In the meantime, we'll demystify the signs of irregular periods, explore potential causes, and guide you on when to seek professional help.

What defines an irregular period? 

Understanding what constitutes an irregular period is the first step in determining if your menstrual cycle falls into this category. Here are some key indicators:

Inconsistent cycle length 

A normal menstrual cycle typically spans between 21 to 35 days. If your cycle consistently falls outside this range, it may be considered irregular.

Unpredictable flow 

Irregular periods can manifest as unusually heavy or light menstrual flow, or even erratic changes in flow throughout your cycle.

Frequent skips or missed periods 

Missing your period occasionally is normal, but frequent skipped periods or prolonged intervals between cycles can signal irregularity.

Shortened or extended periods

Periods that are significantly shorter or longer than a typical menstrual duration may be irregular.

Severe menstrual symptoms 

While some discomfort and mild cramping are common during menstruation, severe pain, heavy bleeding, or excessive clotting may indicate an irregular period.

What causes irregular periods? 

Irregular periods can be the result of a variety of factors, some of which are perfectly normal, while others may require medical attention. Here are some common reasons for irregular menstrual cycles:

Hormone fluctuations 

Hormonal imbalances, the result of conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or perimenopause, can disrupt your menstrual cycle.

Stress

High stress levels can affect your hormonal balance, potentially leading to irregular periods.

Extreme weight changes 

Rapid weight loss or gain can disrupt your body's hormonal equilibrium, affecting the regularity of your menstrual cycle.

Medications 

Certain medications, including birth control pills, aspirin, and antidepressants, can cause irregular periods as a side effect.

Medical conditions 

Underlying medical conditions, such as uterine fibroids or endometriosis, may lead to irregular periods.

When to seek professional advice 

While occasional irregular periods may not be a cause for concern, certain signs and patterns warrant a visit to our team of experts. After an evaluation, we may recommend a treatment plan that could include acupuncture, herbal medicine, or massage.

You should seek an evaluation for irregular periods when:

• Your periods are consistently irregular
• You have severe pain or heavy bleeding
• Your menstrual cycle suddenly changes, especially after years of regularity
• You suspect you may be pregnant and experience irregular bleeding
• Severe menstrual symptoms interfere with your daily activities, work, or social life

The first step in addressing menstrual irregularities is understanding what qualifies as an irregular period and recognizing potential causes. 

While occasional variations are normal, consistent irregularities, severe symptoms, or sudden changes should prompt a conversation with our team of experts. 

You don't have to navigate the complexities of your menstrual cycle alone. We’re here to help you find answers and ensure your reproductive health remains in good standing.

If you’re ready to learn more about irregular periods and treatment options, contact us today at HealthKey Group to schedule an appointment. Our New York City offices are located in Flushing and Elmhurst, Queens, and in the Chinatown section of lower Manhattan.