Screenings, women's and men's health
Irregular Periods: When to Look Into It
What counts as irregular, common causes from stress to thyroid and PCOS, and when it is worth a visit and a few simple tests.
Common causes
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Stress and poor sleep
- Weight gain or loss, or intense exercise
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): irregular periods, acne, extra hair growth
- Thyroid problems
- Perimenopause (see perimenopause)
- Birth control changes
- High prolactin levels
When to look into it
- No period for three months (and not pregnant)
- Cycles shorter than 21 or longer than 35 days
- Very heavy bleeding or periods lasting more than 7 days
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Severe pain
- Trouble getting pregnant
What we check
A pregnancy test, then blood tests for thyroid, prolactin, blood count and sometimes hormones linked to PCOS. A pelvic ultrasound may help. Treatment depends on the cause and your goals, whether that is regular cycles, managing PCOS or fertility planning.
How we can help
We start with a video visit to understand your cycle, order labs at discounted cash prices, and work out a plan. Birth control refills and adjustments are also available (see birth control by telehealth).
Have these ready
- A record of your last 3 to 6 cycles (an app works well)
- Any changes in weight, stress or exercise
- Your medicines and contraception
Questions people ask
Is it normal to have an irregular period sometimes?
Yes. An occasional irregular cycle, especially with stress or travel, is common.
Can PCOS be treated?
Yes. Treatment depends on symptoms and goals, and can include lifestyle changes, birth control and other medicines.
Can stress stop my period?
Yes. Significant stress can delay or stop periods for a while.
Talk it through with Lydia
Cycle all over the place? Let us find out why. See a board-certified nurse practitioner virtually anywhere in Virginia, in our Woodbridge office, or straight to your front door in much of Northern Virginia.
Visits start at $85, and every membership comes with a 30-day trial.
Prefer to ask first? Text us at (571) 402-2102 or message us on WhatsApp.
