Short answer
Periods are irregular if the gap between them is shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days, or keeps changing. It is common in the first years after periods start and near menopause. Other causes include pregnancy, stress, weight change, PCOS and thyroid problems. See a gynaecologist if your pattern changes, periods last more than 7 days, or you bleed between periods.
- Published
- Published by
- Dhruva Hospitals, Kadapa
What is a normal cycle?
The cycle is counted from the first day of one period to the day before the next. The average is about 28 days, but anything from 21 to 35 days can be normal. A period app or a simple calendar helps you see your pattern.
Common causes
- The first few years after periods start (puberty)
- The years before menopause, usually between 45 and 55
- Pregnancy, so take a pregnancy test if your period is late
- Hormonal contraception, such as some pills, injections and the hormonal IUD
- Losing or gaining a lot of weight
- Stress, or very intense exercise
- PCOS (PCOD) or thyroid problems
See a gynaecologist if
- Your periods are irregular or your usual pattern has changed
- Periods last longer than 7 days
- You bleed between periods or after sex
- You also have weight gain, tiredness, facial hair, or very dry or oily skin
- You are trying to get pregnant and your periods are irregular
- You have not had a period for 3 months and are not pregnant
Tests and treatment
Your doctor may advise a pregnancy test, blood tests for hormones and thyroid, and a pelvic ultrasound. Treatment depends on the cause: for example, the combined pill can regulate periods in PCOS, and thyroid medicine treats thyroid problems. Sometimes no treatment is needed.
Trying for a baby
With irregular periods you may not release an egg every month, which can make it harder to conceive. Having sex every 2 to 3 days through the cycle helps. If you have been trying for a while without success, fertility tests can find the cause.
Common questions
Is a period every 40 days normal?
A cycle longer than 35 days is considered irregular. It is not always a problem, but it is worth a check, especially if it is new for you or you want to get pregnant.
My teenage daughter’s periods are irregular. Should I worry?
Irregular periods are common in the first years after periods start. See a gynaecologist if she bleeds for more than 7 days, bleeds very heavily, has severe pain, or has no period for several months.
Sources
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. In an emergency, call +91 90368 52311.