When to Consider Treatment for Your Abnormal Periods

It’s common for periods to vary a little from month to month, but if your menstrual cycle suddenly changes or becomes consistently irregular, it might raise alarm bells that something more serious is going on. 

The first thing to keep in mind is: Don’t panic! You’re not alone. Board-certified OB/GYN Dr. Helard Ballon-Hennings, MD, FACOG, and our expert team at Desert Hills Care Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, understand the ins and outs of abnormal periods and offer various services to help you find the right solution. 

In the meantime, we’ll also explore the common signs of abnormal periods, potential causes, and when it’s time to consult with our team. 

What is considered an abnormal period? 

A healthy menstrual cycle typically lasts between 21 and 35 days, with bleeding lasting 3 to 7 days. But for some women, periods can become irregular, heavy, or even painful. So what’s considered an abnormal period? 

Irregular cycles 

You may have an irregular cycle if your periods are shorter than 21 days, longer than 35 days, or your cycle length varies dramatically from month to month. 

Heavy bleeding (menorrhagia) 

Heavy bleeding is characterized by soaking through your pads or tampons in less than 2 hours or bleeding lasting longer than 7 days. 

Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)

Painful periods occur when menstrual cramps are so severe that they interfere with your daily life. 

Skipped periods (amenorrhea)

Skipped periods are defined as missing periods for more than 3 months without pregnancy, menopause, or birth control involvement. 

Spotting between periods 

Spotting between periods or after sex may signal an underlying problem. 

Common causes of abnormal periods 

Abnormal periods can be caused by a variety of factors. While some are temporary and resolve on their own, others may indicate a more serious health issue. Here are some of the causes of which you should be aware: 

Hormonal imbalances 

Hormone fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone can cause irregular or heavy periods. PCOS, thyroid disorders, and perimenopause can all lead to disrupted or unpredictable cycles. 

Uterine fibroids and polyps

Noncancerous growths like fibroids and polyps in your uterus can cause heavy bleeding, painful periods, and spotting between cycles. Fibroids are muscular tumors that grow on your uterine wall and are common in women of childbearing age, while polyps are small, benign growths in your uterine lining that can lead to abnormal bleeding, particularly between periods. 

Stress and lifestyle factors

Stress, sudden weight changes, and excessive exercise can disrupt your menstrual cycle. Chronic stress affects hormone levels, extreme exercise can cause missed periods, and weight fluctuations can throw off hormone balance. 

Treatment options for abnormal periods

Treatment for abnormal periods will depend on the underlying cause(s), but here are some common approaches we may suggest depending on your unique case: 

Hormonal birth control 

Birth control pills, patches, or intrauterine devices (IUDs) can help regulate your cycle, reduce heavy bleeding, and alleviate painful cramps.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen can help reduce your menstrual pain and blood flow. 

Surgical options

For more severe cases, such as large fibroids or polyps, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the growths and reduce bleeding. 

Lifestyle changes 

Managing stress, improving nutrition, and maintaining a healthy weight can help stabilize your hormones and improve cycle regularity. 

In the end, we hope you realize that it’s always crucial to listen to your body. And, remember that abnormal periods aren’t something you have to live with. If your menstrual cycle is causing you discomfort or concern, seeking medical treatment can help you find the relief you’re searching for. 

So, if you’re ready to take the next step to prioritize your overall health, call us at 702-800-7008, or book online with us today!