When do I see a doctor for Irregular periods?

What are irregular periods?

Irregular periods is when the length of your menstrual cycle (the gap between your periods starting) keeps changing. Which means your periods may come earlier or later. The average menstrual cycle lasts 28 days, although it’s normal for it to be a bit shorter or longer than this. However, if the length of your menstrual cycle is more than 35 days then you need to see a gynecologist.

When should I see a gynecologist?

· When you experience a sudden change in your menstrual cycle and you are below the age of 45

· Its alarming when you have your periods more often than every 21 days or less often than every 35 days

· Overflow of your periods for more than 7 days

· You need to see your gyne when there’s a big difference (at least 20 days) between your shortest and longest menstrual cycle

· Not being able to conceive naturally

 

*There might not be anything wrong, but it’s a good idea to get checked out to see what the cause might be.

Trying for a baby…

It can be more difficult to get pregnant if you have irregular periods because you might not ovulate (release an egg) regularly.

Sometimes hormone medicine or fertility treatment may be needed if you’re struggling to get pregnant naturally.

 

By Dr. Maiasa Ali

Specialist OB/GYN