Most people who menstruate have their period around every 28 days, but it’s different for everyone.
Periods can range from day 24 to day 38 of your cycle.
Signs of irregular periods can include:
Some people might have a less regular cycle, and experience a different cycle each month (this is often the case when girls first start their period). However, it can also be caused by things like stress, certain health conditions or pregnancy. Irregular periods can also be a sign of menopause. Most of the time there’s no need to worry but sometimes it is important to speak to your doctor.
If you think you might be pregnant, it’s important to take a pregnancy test as soon as possible.
Further information on your options if you’re pregnant
You’re not pregnant and:
If you’re seeing your doctor, there are some useful pieces of information to think about beforehand:
It can be helpful to keep a note of your period dates and symptoms using a calendar, a diary or an app. You can then discuss this with your doctor who can decide if any tests or treatments might be needed.
Irregular periods can be caused by lots of different things, usually involving hormonal changes, including menopause or hormonal contraception.
Your menstrual cycle is regulated by 2 hormones, oestrogen and progesterone. Both of these hormones can be affected by natural changes in your body. For example puberty, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and menopause.
Your period will start during puberty. It can take up to 2 years for oestrogen and progesterone levels, and your periods, to settle.
Your period will stop during pregnancy but you might still experience some bleeding or spotting early on. If you’re worried about bleeding during pregnancy, speak to your midwife, doctor or local early pregnancy centre.
Most women won’t have periods when they’re exclusively breastfeeding. But you can still get pregnant so you should think about your contraceptive options if you don’t want another pregnancy.
Irregular periods can be common before menopause. The amount of menstrual blood can vary from one period to the next.
Other things that can cause irregular periods are:
Irregular periods can also be caused by underlying health conditions, including:
In rare cases, irregular periods may be a sign of cancer of the womb or the neck of the womb (cervix). These cancers can cause bleeding in between periods or during sex. If you’re worried, speak to your doctor.
Last updated:
28 February 2023