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Every woman has a unique menstrual cycle. Some women can predict the exact hour their period will come, while others have a two-day window. But overall, the average period is six to eight days long and comes every 24 to 38 days. If you notice a change in your cycle or if your cycle isn’t predictable, you may have an irregular period. Learn the signs of an irregular period and when to contact your gynecologist in the guide below.

What Is an Irregular Period? 

While some fluctuation in your period is normal, irregular periods are consistently unpredictable. They may vary in length each month, increase or decrease in blood flow, or have an inconsistent cycle length. You may also experience multiple periods a month or a month without any menstruation. Fluctuations that occur for more than six months are considered irregular. 

What Are the Potential Causes? 

Lincoln GynecologistIf you just started getting a period or are entering menopause, irregularity is expected. Women who have recently given birth or adjusted their hormonal birth control will also experience irregular menstruation. However, irregular periods can also be symptoms of bigger medical concerns such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), over or underactive thyroid, and uterine fibroids. 

When Should You See a Gynecologist? 

Contact your gynecologist if your menstrual cycle has changed or become unpredictable in the past six months. Share your cycle history and any other concerns like abdominal pain or unwanted hair growth. Be sure to include any recent life changes that might warrant a change in your cycle, like persistent stress or use of an intrauterine device (IUD). All this information will help your gynecologist determine the cause of the irregularity.  

 

If you’re concerned about an irregular period, contact the gynecologists at Women’s Clinic of Lincoln, P.C. Their compassionate team has provided comprehensive care to the women of Lancaster County, NE, since 1973, from birth control to breast exams and hysterectomies. Visit their website to learn more about their team, or call (402) 434-3370 to schedule an appointment.

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