Irregular Periods

Irregular periods are one of the most common reasons patients seek gynecologic care. While occasional changes in your cycle can be normal, ongoing irregularity may signal an underlying condition that needs evaluation. At Complete Care ObGyn, our Henderson OB/GYN team helps patients understand the cause of irregular periods and develop treatment plans that support long-term reproductive health.

Whether your periods are too frequent, too far apart, unusually heavy, or missing altogether, we are here to help you find answers and relief.

What Counts as an Irregular Period?

A typical menstrual cycle lasts between 21 and 35 days. Cycles that consistently fall outside this range or change significantly from your normal pattern may be considered irregular.

Common types of irregular periods include:

• Amenorrhea, or no periods for three months or longer when not pregnant
• Oligomenorrhea, or infrequent periods more than 35 days apart
• Menorrhagia, or heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Polymenorrhea, or periods occurring more often than every 21 days
• Spotting or bleeding between periods
• Unpredictable cycle lengths from month to month

If your cycle is affecting your comfort, daily routine, or fertility planning, it is worth being evaluated.

Common Causes of Irregular Periods

Menstrual irregularities can result from a wide range of factors, including hormonal changes, medical conditions, and lifestyle influences.

Hormonal causes may include:

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Thyroid disorders
• Perimenopause
• Elevated prolactin levels

Reproductive health conditions may include:

• Uterine fibroids or polyps
• Endometriosis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Ovarian cysts

Lifestyle and medical factors may include:

• Stress or significant weight changes
• Very high or very low body weight
• Excessive exercise or eating disorders
• Certain medications, including hormonal birth control
• Chronic conditions such as diabetes or celiac disease

Your provider will work with you to identify the underlying cause and tailor care to your health goals.

When to See a Provider

You should schedule a visit if you experience:

• Periods that are consistently early, late, or skipped
• Bleeding that lasts longer than seven days
• Needing to change pads or tampons every one to two hours
• Bleeding between periods or after intercourse
• Severe cramps, fatigue, or dizziness during your cycle
• Difficulty tracking ovulation or concerns about fertility

Irregular periods can affect energy levels, mood, fertility, and overall wellness.

Diagnosis and Testing

Evaluation begins with a detailed discussion of your cycle history and symptoms, followed by a pelvic exam.

Additional testing may include:

• Blood work to assess hormone levels and thyroid function
• Pelvic ultrasound to evaluate the uterus and ovaries
• Pap smear or endometrial biopsy when indicated
• Menstrual cycle and ovulation tracking

Identifying the cause is the first step toward effective treatment.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the diagnosis, your age, and whether you are planning to conceive.

Common treatment options include:

• Hormonal birth control to regulate cycles and reduce heavy or painful periods
• Lifestyle adjustments such as nutrition support, stress management, or weight stabilization
• Treatment for thyroid or metabolic conditions
• Medications to manage PCOS or insulin resistance
• Surgical treatment for fibroids, polyps, or other structural causes when needed

If pregnancy is a goal, care may include ovulation support or coordination with family planning services.

Personalized Care for Menstrual Health

Irregular periods are common, but they do not have to be ignored. With thoughtful evaluation and individualized treatment, cycle balance can often be restored.

Schedule an appointment with Complete Care ObGyn in Henderson, NV to discuss irregular periods and take control of your menstrual health.