Irregular periods are common, and menstrual cycles can sometimes change from month to month. However, repeated changes in the timing, duration, or amount of menstrual bleeding may indicate that something is affecting the menstrual cycle.
There are many possible reasons for irregular periods, including stress, changes in weight, intense exercise, pregnancy, hormonal conditions, thyroid problems, certain medicines, and other health factors.
What Are Irregular Periods?
An irregular period means that your menstrual pattern is not consistent with your usual cycle.
Irregularity can involve:
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Periods arriving earlier or later than expected
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Occasionally missing a period
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Significant changes in cycle length
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Bleeding that lasts longer or shorter than usual
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Changes in the amount of menstrual bleeding
The normal menstrual pattern varies between individuals, so knowing your own usual cycle can help you identify changes.
If you are looking for information about what to do when your period is delayed, you can also read:
What Causes Irregular Periods?
Several factors can affect menstrual regularity.
Common possibilities include:
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Stress
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Pregnancy
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Weight gain or weight loss
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Excessive physical activity
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Changes in eating patterns
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PCOS
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Thyroid disorders
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Certain medications
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Illness
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Hormonal changes
Sometimes menstrual irregularity occurs temporarily and then returns to the person's usual pattern.
Can Stress Cause Irregular Periods?
Significant stress can affect the hormonal processes involved in ovulation. As a result, some people may experience a delayed period or changes in their usual menstrual pattern during stressful periods.
Poor sleep and major changes in daily routine may also accompany stressful periods and can contribute to changes in overall wellbeing.
Healthy sleep, balanced nutrition, reasonable physical activity, and appropriate stress-management strategies can support general health.
Can PCOS Cause Irregular Periods?
PCOS is one possible cause of irregular or infrequent menstruation.
People with PCOS may experience other symptoms such as acne, increased facial or body hair, changes in weight, or difficulties with regular ovulation. Not everyone experiences the same symptoms.
If irregular periods continue, a healthcare professional can assess your symptoms and determine whether PCOS or another condition could be involved.
Can Thyroid Problems Affect Periods?
Thyroid hormones are involved in many processes throughout the body and can influence menstrual function.
Both an underactive thyroid and an overactive thyroid can sometimes be associated with menstrual changes.
If irregular periods occur alongside other persistent symptoms, medical evaluation may help identify whether a thyroid problem or another condition is contributing.
Can Weight and Exercise Affect Menstruation?
Significant changes in weight or very intense physical activity can affect menstrual cycles.
Rapid weight loss, inadequate nutrition, restrictive dieting, or excessive exercise may interfere with normal hormonal function in some people.
A balanced diet and sustainable physical activity are generally preferable to extreme approaches intended to change the timing of menstruation.
What Should You Do If Your Period Is Irregular?
Keeping a menstrual record is a useful first step.
Record:
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The first day of each period
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The number of days between periods
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How long bleeding lasts
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Changes in bleeding amount
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Menstrual symptoms
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Major stress or lifestyle changes
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Exercise changes
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Weight changes
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Medicines and supplements
A record over several months can help identify whether the irregularity is occasional or persistent.
Should You Try to Make an Irregular Period Start Immediately?
Trying to force menstruation to begin using unproven home remedies is not a reliable solution.
Foods, herbal products, supplements, and other methods promoted online may not have established effectiveness for immediately starting a period. Some supplements or herbal products can also cause unwanted effects or interact with medicines.
The appropriate approach depends on the reason for the irregular cycle.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Consider speaking with a healthcare professional if your periods repeatedly become irregular, frequently disappear, or change significantly from your normal pattern.
Medical advice may also be appropriate if irregular periods occur with:
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Persistent pelvic pain
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Very heavy bleeding
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Significant unexplained weight changes
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Excessive facial or body hair
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Persistent acne
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Unusual fatigue
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Other new or concerning symptoms
A healthcare professional can review your menstrual history and symptoms and determine whether further evaluation is appropriate.
Final Thoughts
Irregular periods can have many causes, and an occasional change does not necessarily mean there is a serious health problem. Stress, weight changes, exercise, pregnancy, PCOS, thyroid conditions, illness, and medicines can all affect menstrual timing.
Rather than trying to make an irregular period start immediately, it is more useful to track your cycle and consider the possible underlying cause. If irregularity continues or is accompanied by concerning symptoms, professional medical advice can help determine the next step.