Your period naturally changes from month to month. The timing, flow, and symptoms can all vary, and while this is usually normal, some changes may require medical attention. Women's health is about understanding and addressing what’s typical for your body.
Listen to your body: Heavier flows or shifts in timing might be worth discussing. Let us know if you notice significant changes that worry you or affect your daily life. Heather Kennedy, PAC, at Refine Medical in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, can help determine if your abnormal period needs attention.
Before identifying an abnormal period, it’s helpful to know what a typical cycle looks like. On average, a menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, though anywhere from 21-35 days is considered normal. Most periods last between 3-7 days, with a flow that’s neither too heavy nor too light.
It’s also common to experience mild cramping, bloating, or mood swings, but these symptoms are usually manageable and don’t interfere significantly with daily life.
If your period falls within this range and you experience mild discomfort, your cycle is likely normal. If your period drastically changes or interferes with your everyday activities, you should look closer.
One of the most common signs that something might be wrong with your period is heavy bleeding. Soaking through pads or tampons every hour for several consecutive hours is classified by doctors as heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia).
Other signs include passing large blood clots, experiencing periods that last longer than a week, or feeling dizzy or fatigued due to blood loss.
Various factors can cause heavy bleeding. Hormonal imbalances, fibroids, polyps, or other conditions can cause heavier bleeding than usual. Discussing any changes with us is crucial to rule out any serious issues.
While it’s normal for periods to be irregular, especially during adolescence or perimenopause occasionally, consistent irregularity is a sign that something might be off. Irregular periods can be defined as cycles shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days. Missing periods or having frequent light or heavy periods can also indicate an abnormal cycle.
Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or other hormonal imbalances can cause irregular periods. Stress, significant weight changes, and excessive exercise can disrupt your cycle. If your periods become consistently irregular, it’s a good idea to talk to us about potential underlying causes.
Menstrual cramps are a common part of many people’s periods. For some, cramping is mild and manageable. But if your cramps are severe and interfere with your ability to function, it could be a sign of an underlying issue, such as endometriosis or fibroids.
Endometriosis occurs when uterine lining tissue develops outside the uterus, leading to severe pain and, in some cases, irregular bleeding. Fibroids are noncancerous growths in or around the uterus that can lead to heavy bleeding and severe pain during menstruation.
If your cramps are debilitating or worsen over time, it’s important to consult with us for evaluation and potential treatment.
If you suddenly stop having periods (amenorrhea), it can be a sign of various conditions. It could indicate stress, significant weight changes, or extreme physical activity in younger individuals. For those approaching menopause, it’s usually part of the natural aging process.
However, amenorrhea can also point to more serious conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid issues, or even pregnancy.
Contact us if you miss your period for more than three months without a clear cause. We can help you determine whether your missed periods are due to a medical condition and guide you toward appropriate treatment.
Some people experience mood swings, irritability, or fatigue during their periods, which is often referred to as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). While these symptoms can be typical, drastic changes in mood, depression, or anxiety during your cycle can indicate an underlying issue, such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
PMDD, a severe form of PMS, causes significant emotional and physical symptoms that affect daily functioning. If your mood swings are extreme or you feel overwhelmed by emotional symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice.
Schedule an appointment if you experience any of the following abnormal period signs:
At your appointment, we will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and recommend blood work, ultrasounds, or an endometrial biopsy to determine the cause of your symptoms.
Trust your instincts. If you notice something wrong with your period, reach out to protect your health. Call our office or schedule an appointment online today if your period becomes irregular or you develop severe symptoms.