Menstrual Irregularities

Changes in your menstrual cycle can be a sign that something needs attention. Whether periods are heavy, light, frequent, late, or absent, menstrual irregularities are common and often treatable. Identifying the cause is the first step toward relief and more predictable cycles.

MyObgyne provides evaluation and treatment for menstrual irregularities in San Tan Valley, AZ. If your cycle feels off, we can review your symptoms, identify possible causes, and create a plan that fits your health needs and goals.

What Is Considered an Irregular Period?

A typical menstrual cycle is often between 21 and 35 days. Occasional variation can happen, but consistent or significant changes may signal an underlying issue. Common menstrual irregularities include:

• Amenorrhea: no periods for several months
• Oligomenorrhea: infrequent periods, often more than 35 days between cycles
• Menorrhagia: heavy or prolonged bleeding
• Polymenorrhea: periods that occur too frequently
• Spotting or bleeding between periods
• Severe menstrual cramps or pain (dysmenorrhea)

Tracking timing, flow, and symptoms can help clarify patterns and support a more accurate evaluation.

Common Causes of Menstrual Irregularities

Many factors can affect cycle regularity. Causes may include hormonal changes, gynecologic conditions, and lifestyle or medical factors.

Hormonal causes may include:

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Thyroid imbalance (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism)
• Perimenopause or menopause
• Birth control or hormone therapy changes
• Elevated prolactin levels

Gynecologic conditions may include:

• Uterine fibroids or polyps
• Endometriosis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Ovarian cysts

Other contributing factors may include:

• Stress or major life changes
• Eating disorders or extreme weight changes
• Very high or low BMI
• Low calorie intake
• Excessive exercise
• Certain medications
• Underlying chronic illnesses

Because many conditions can cause similar symptoms, an individualized evaluation is important.

When to See a Provider

Some cycle changes can be normal during adolescence, postpartum recovery, or the years leading up to menopause. However, schedule an appointment if you:

• Miss more than three periods in a row and are not pregnant
• Have very heavy bleeding or need to change pads or tampons every hour
• Bleed for more than seven days per cycle
• Have spotting between periods or bleeding after sex
• Have severe cramps that limit daily activities
• Notice sudden or ongoing changes to your usual cycle pattern

Earlier evaluation can help prevent worsening symptoms and address underlying conditions sooner.

Diagnosis and Testing

Your visit typically starts with a detailed review of your health history, cycle patterns, and symptoms. Testing may include:

• Pelvic exam
• Blood tests to evaluate hormone levels
• Ultrasound to evaluate the uterus and ovaries
• Endometrial biopsy in select cases

Once the cause is identified, we can create a plan focused on symptom relief and long-term health.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on your diagnosis, age, symptoms, and whether pregnancy is a goal now or in the future. Options may include:

• Hormonal birth control to regulate cycles
• Medication for thyroid or other hormonal imbalances
• Lifestyle changes such as stress reduction or weight management
• Nutritional support and supplements when appropriate
• Targeted care for conditions such as PCOS or fibroids
• Procedures or surgery in rare or severe cases

We focus on the least invasive approach that meets your goals and improves day-to-day quality of life.

Menstrual Health at Every Life Stage

Menstrual irregularities can occur at any age:

• Teens: cycles may take time to become regular after puberty
• 20s and 30s: changes can relate to stress, contraception, or medical conditions
• Perimenopause: periods may become heavier or less predictable as hormone levels shift

Understanding what is typical at each stage can help you recognize when it is time to seek care.

Get Answers and Support

Unpredictable periods are common, but they can be a sign of a treatable condition. If your cycle feels different than usual, you do not have to manage it alone.

For menstrual irregularities care in San Tan Valley, AZ, schedule an appointment with MyObgyne to discuss symptoms, testing options, and a treatment plan.