Irregular Periods: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Care in Abu Dhabi
Missing one or two periods a year can be normal for some women, especially with stress or lifestyle changes.Irregular periods are one of the most common reasons for gynecology visits worldwide.
Irregular periods are a common concern in women of all ages. If your cycle is unpredictable, heavier or lighter than usual, or you occasionally skip periods, you’re not alone. While changes are often harmless, ongoing irregularities can signal an underlying health issue that deserves expert attention.
What Are Irregular Periods?
Irregular periods mean your menstrual cycle is unpredictable in timing, flow, or duration. A typical menstrual cycle lasts 21–35 days, but periods can come too early, too late, skip months, or vary widely in heaviness or length.
Common signs include:
Cycles that change in length from month to month
Missed periods (when not pregnant)
Very heavy or very light bleeding
Spotting between periods
Periods lasting longer than 7 days
Image suggestion: Simple diagram of a menstrual calendar with erratic dates or highlighted variations in cycle length.
How Common Are Irregular Periods?
Irregular periods are very common, especially during adolescence, after childbirth, while breastfeeding, and as women approach menopause. Most women will experience cycle changes at some point—but if irregularity is persistent or severe, it’s worth discussing with a gynecologist.
Most menstrual cycles don’t match the “28-day myth”—there’s a wide range of normal!
What Causes Irregular Periods?
Many factors can disrupt the regularity of your menstrual cycle:
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
Thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism)
Stress or emotional upheaval
Major weight loss/gain or eating disorders
Perimenopause (transition toward menopause)
Excessive exercise
Hormonal imbalances
Uterine problems like fibroids or polyps
Medications such as certain birth control or psychiatric drugs
Symptoms Section / What to Watch For
When are irregular periods a concern?
Seek medical advice if you have:
No periods for 3+ months (and not pregnant)
Heavy bleeding or periods lasting longer than 7 days
Bleeding between periods or after sex
Sudden changes to your regular cycle
Difficulty getting pregnant
How Are Irregular Periods Diagnosed?
A thorough diagnosis may include:
Medical and menstrual history review
Pelvic examination
Blood tests for hormone levels (FSH, LH, thyroid, prolactin, etc.)
Pelvic ultrasound (to view uterus and ovaries)
Additional targeted tests, if needed
Treatment Options
How you treat irregular periods depends on what’s causing them and your life stage or fertility goals:
Lifestyle changes: Managing stress, achieving a healthy weight, balanced nutrition
Hormonal treatments: Birth control pills or hormonal IUDs to regulate cycles
Treating underlying conditions: Addressing PCOS, thyroid problems, etc.
Fertility-focused options: Special treatments if you’re trying to conceive
Surgery: Rarely, for structural causes like fibroids or polyps
Image suggestion: Split image with workout/food for lifestyle, medication blister pack, supportive doctor consultation.
When to See a Gynecologist
Don’t ignore ongoing period irregularities—they may point to important health concerns. Regular cycles are a sign of hormonal balance and reproductive health. A gynecologist can diagnose the cause, offer reassurance, and design a treatment plan tailored just for you.
Menstrual changes are part of life, but you don’t have to guess when something is normal or not. With supportive medical care, most causes of irregular periods can be managed so you can feel your best and plan your future with confidence.
