Irregular Periods
Irregular periods are one of the most common reasons patients visit a gynecologist. While occasional changes in your cycle are normal, consistently unpredictable periods can indicate an underlying condition that deserves attention.
Whether your periods are too frequent, too far apart, heavy, or missing altogether, the team at Legacy For Women in Henderson, NV, is here to help you find the cause and the right treatment. As a trusted OBGYN in Henderson, our women’s health specialists provide compassionate, expert care to restore balance to your menstrual cycle.
What Counts as an Irregular Period?
A typical menstrual cycle lasts between 21 and 35 days. Anything outside of that range—or major changes to your usual cycle—may be considered irregular.
Common types of irregular periods include:
- Amenorrhea: No periods for 3+ months (not due to pregnancy)
- Oligomenorrhea: Infrequent periods (35+ days between cycles)
- Menorrhagia: Heavy or prolonged bleeding
- Polymenorrhea: Periods occurring more frequently than every 21 days
- Spotting or breakthrough bleeding between periods
- Unpredictable cycle lengths month to month
If your cycle is causing discomfort or disruption in daily life, it’s time to get evaluated by a provider.
Common Causes of Irregular Periods
Irregular menstrual cycles can result from a variety of factors—some temporary, others related to more persistent health issues.
Hormonal causes:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism)
- Perimenopause
- Elevated prolactin levels
Reproductive health conditions:
- Uterine fibroids or polyps
- Endometriosis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Ovarian cysts
Lifestyle and medical factors:
- Stress or significant weight changes
- High BMI or very low weight
- Eating disorders or excessive exercise
- Certain medications, including hormonal birth control
- Chronic conditions such as diabetes or celiac disease
At Legacy For Women, your provider will take time to determine the root cause and develop a personalized treatment plan that supports your reproductive and overall health.
When to See a Provider
You should schedule a visit at our Henderson women’s health clinic if you experience:
- Periods that are consistently early, late, or skipped
- Bleeding that lasts more than 7 days
- Needing to change a pad or tampon every 1–2 hours
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Severe cramps, fatigue, or dizziness during your cycle
- Difficulty tracking ovulation or concerns about fertility
Irregular periods can affect more than your reproductive health—they can also impact energy levels, mood, and long-term wellness.
Diagnosis and Testing
Your OBGYN in Henderson will begin with a detailed medical history and symptom review, followed by a pelvic exam. Additional testing may include:
- Blood work to evaluate hormone levels and thyroid function
- Pelvic ultrasound to assess the uterus and ovaries
- Pap smear or endometrial biopsy, if needed
- Menstrual tracking and ovulation monitoring
Getting a clear diagnosis is the first step toward managing symptoms and achieving a regular, healthy cycle.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the underlying cause, your reproductive goals, and your overall health. Common options include:
- Hormonal birth control to regulate cycles and manage heavy or painful periods
- Lifestyle changes such as nutrition support, weight management, or stress reduction
- Thyroid or metabolic treatment to correct hormone imbalance
- Medication for PCOS or insulin resistance
- Surgical treatment for fibroids, polyps, or other structural issues (if needed)
If you’re trying to conceive, our team also provides fertility-focused care and ovulation support.
Personalized Support for Every Cycle
Irregular periods are common, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with discomfort or uncertainty. At Legacy For Women in Henderson, NV, we offer comprehensive gynecologic care designed to help you understand your body and restore balance to your cycle.
Schedule an appointment today to talk with a provider about your symptoms and take control of your menstrual health.