Understanding Irregular Periods: Causes and When to Seek Help

Partner with Dr. Anu Kothari at Comprehensive OB/GYN Healthcare to Determine What Your Irregular Periods Mean in Hicksville, NY

Are My Irregular Periods Hinting at Pregnancy?

The unpredictable nature of irregular periods can make them tough to decipher. If you are sexually active, you may struggle to tell if your absent period is a sign of pregnancy or just your body working as it normally does.

Before you take any significant actions, it helps to understand irregular periods better.

First, having an irregular menstrual cycle is not that rare. According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 14 to 25 percent of women experience irregular periods.

Health Factors Contributing to Irregular Periods

Irregular periods may also be related to various health factors.

Excessive stress can affect your body in numerous ways, including your menstrual cycle. Pushing your body too hard during workouts may also cause irregular periods, and recent weight fluctuations can also contribute to them.

Don’t forget that irregular cycles may be symptomatic of significant health conditions. Cancer, endometriosis, and thyroid gland disorders are just some of the health issues known to affect menstrual cycles. You cannot focus solely on pregnancy as the likely explanation for an irregular period because other conditions may warrant similar concern and urgency.

Understanding the cause of your irregular cycle should be your priority. Dr. Kothari at Comprehensive OB/GYN Healthcare in Hicksville, NY, can help you gain insight into your irregular periods.

Pregnancy Signs to Monitor if You Have an Irregular Period

Since your period may not be a reliable indicator of pregnancy if you have an irregular menstrual cycle, you’ll need to look for other signs to determine your current condition.

Common signs to watch for include increased bouts of nausea, more frequent urination, spotting, vaginal discharge, breast tenderness, and cramping. You may also suddenly develop strong cravings for particular types of food due to pregnancy hormones. Get tested when you experience those symptoms to determine if you are pregnant.

Even if you have an irregular cycle, you may notice that your period takes longer than normal. Use that as your cue to take a pregnancy test.

Schedule an Appointment for Your Irregular Periods

Call (516) 822-4600 to speak with Dr. Kothari at Comprehensive OB/GYN Healthcare in Hicksville, NY, and learn more about the significance of your irregular periods.