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Irregular Cycles
An irregular cycle is a symptom, not a diagnosis; it points to something upstream that needs investigating.
A regular menstrual cycle is one of the most reliable indicators of hormonal health. When cycles become unpredictable (too short, too long, or absent altogether) something upstream in the hormonal axis has shifted. Finding that cause, whether it's stress, PCOS, thyroid dysfunction, or nutrition, is what determines the right treatment.
The Cycle as a Vital Sign
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists considers the menstrual cycle a fifth vital sign. Irregularity signals systemic hormonal disruption that warrants investigation, not just reassurance.
Multiple Root Causes
Irregular cycles can stem from PCOS, thyroid dysfunction, elevated prolactin, hypothalamic suppression, or perimenopause; each requires a distinct treatment approach.
Ovulation Is the Goal
Having a period doesn't confirm ovulation. Identifying whether ovulation is occurring, and restoring it, is the marker of true hormonal health restoration.
What You Need to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
References & Further Reading
This article is for education and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. For background reading, these independent health authorities offer evidence-based information:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome — U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus)
- Endometriosis — U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus)
- Menopause — U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus)
- Infertility — U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus)
- Menopause Information for Women — The Menopause Society (NAMS)
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Read moreHow I Treat This
These are the services I most commonly draw on when working with irregular cycles.
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