Overview
Changes in your menstrual cycle can be confusing, frustrating, and disruptive to daily life, but you don’t have to manage them alone.
We are here to help women of all ages understand the causes behind abnormal periods and provide expert solutions that support comfort, hormonal balance, and overall wellness.
What Is Considered an Abnormal Period?
Menstrual cycles vary, but a typical cycle lasts between 21 and 35 days with bleeding that lasts 2 to 7 days. If your cycle falls outside this range or the symptoms affect your quality of life, it may be considered abnormal. Common types of abnormal periods include:
- Heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad or tampon every 1–2 hours)
- Very light or absent periods
- Irregular timing (more than 35 days apart or unpredictable)
- Prolonged bleeding (lasting longer than 7 days)
- Frequent spotting between periods
- Painful periods (cramping that disrupts normal activity)
- Menopausal bleeding
What Causes Abnormal Bleeding?
Abnormal bleeding may be related to:
- Hormonal imbalances (estrogen, progesterone, thyroid)
- Uterine fibroids or polyps
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
- Perimenopause or menopause
- Birth control methods
- Endometriosis or adenomyosis
- Stress or lifestyle changes
- Certain medications
How We Evaluate and Treat
At Rhett Women’s Center, your provider will take a thorough health history and may recommend:
- In-house ultrasound to evaluate the uterus and ovaries
- Hormone panel and bloodwork
- Evaluation for PCOS or thyroid dysfunction
- Assessment of birth control methods
Depending on the cause, your treatment may include:
- Bio-identical hormone therapy or hormone balancing
- Non-hormonal medication
- Nutritional or supplement support
- Minimally invasive gynecologic procedures
- Lifestyle modifications
- One of our in-house surgical options
We tailor treatment plans to your unique symptoms and goals, whether that’s regulation, relief, or preparing for fertility.
Abnormal Periods FAQs
How do I know if my period is too heavy?
If you’re soaking through one or more pads or tampons every 1–2 hours, waking at night to change protection, or experiencing fatigue from blood loss, your bleeding is likely too heavy.
Can abnormal periods affect fertility?
Yes. Irregular or absent periods may signal ovulation issues, which can impact your ability to conceive. We can evaluate and support your reproductive health.
Are irregular periods normal during perimenopause?
Yes. Hormonal fluctuations during the years leading up to menopause can cause cycle changes. However, very heavy or prolonged bleeding still warrants evaluation.
Should I be worried about spotting between periods?
Spotting may result from birth control, hormonal shifts, or uterine conditions. It’s a good idea to check with your provider to rule out more serious causes.
When should I see a provider?
If you notice changes in your cycle that persist for more than a couple of months, or your symptoms interfere with daily life, it’s time for an evaluation.