Monthly menstrual cycles mark a healthy female reproductive system. Unfortunately, some women experience abnormal symptoms during their periods that can interfere with daily life. Learn more about what could cause irregularities in your period and how visiting a women’s health clinic can help.

What Causes Irregularities?

Periods are considered abnormal if they occur less than every 21 days or more than every 35 days apart, they last longer than seven days, or you struggle with pain, nausea, vomiting, cramping, or spotting between periods. Since pregnancy and breastfeeding impact a woman’s estrogen and progesterone levels, it’s normal for your period to stop. Dietary changes, such as consuming too much alcohol or cutting out fats, can also affect estrogen levels and interrupt your monthly cycle. Excessive stress or exercise will likewise impact your hormonal balance.

An irregular period is often a symptom of medical conditions specific to the female reproductive system, like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), uterine fibroids, premature ovarian failure, or pelvic inflammatory disease. If you experience abdominal pain, heavy flow, or stop menstruating, you should seek a professional diagnosis.

How Can Medical Providers Help? 

If you have abnormal periods, visit a women’s health clinic where doctors will analyze your physical condition, medical history, and list of symptoms to decide the appropriate course of action. Be as open and honest as you can about what you’re experiencing, and bring in notes regarding your monthly flow. 

For PCOS and endometriosis, the doctor may prescribe medications such as birth control, which contain reproductive hormones that prompt and stop your period on a schedule. Uterine fibroids can be treated with medication and birth control methods. Endometrial ablation may also be recommended to remove a small portion of the uterine lining, getting rid of fibroids there and reducing heavy menstrual flow and pain. Premature ovarian failure and pelvic inflammatory disease usually require hormone therapy and antibiotics, respectively.

Whether you’ve been living with menstruation irregularities for years or recently started experiencing new symptoms, the family doctors at Fairbanks Clinic, Inc. are here to help. Since 1932, this Alaskan family and women’s health clinic has offered the highest level of compassionate care, helping family members of all ages enjoy a better quality of life. Learn more about their patient portal and the services they offer by visiting their website, or make an appointment at the women’s health clinic by calling (907) 452-1761.