Let’s start with the basics: A typical menstrual cycle ranges from 21 to 35 days, and most people bleed for about 2 to 7 days. Irregular periods are when your cycle doesn’t follow a consistent pattern — maybe it’s shorter one month, longer the next, or skips entirely.
You might experience:
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Periods that come earlier or later than expected
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Extra-light or super-heavy bleeding
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Spotting between periods
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No period for 60+ days
Occasional changes? Totally normal. But if your cycle feels all over the place for several months, it’s time to pay attention.
Why Are My Periods Irregular?
There are many reasons your cycle might go off-script — some totally harmless, others worth checking out. Here are some of the most common culprits:
1. Stress (Yep, It’s That Powerful)
Stress can seriously mess with your hormones. When cortisol (your stress hormone) spikes, it can suppress ovulation — delaying your period or skipping it altogether.
💡 Real Talk: Even “good” stress (like a big move or exciting new job) can throw your body off. If you’ve had a hectic few months, your cycle might just be playing catch-up.
2. Hormonal Imbalances
Conditions like PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), thyroid disorders, or perimenopause can all lead to irregular periods. These are usually tied to changes in estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone levels.
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PCOS often comes with skipped periods, acne, excess hair growth, and weight fluctuations.
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Thyroid issues may cause periods to be super heavy, super light, or disappear altogether.
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Perimenopause (the years leading up to menopause) brings natural hormone shifts that make cycles unpredictable.
3. Changes in Weight or Nutrition
Significant weight gain or loss can alter your hormone production. So can under-eating or restrictive diets. If your body doesn’t get enough fuel, it may pause your cycle to conserve energy.
Disordered eating and conditions like hypothalamic amenorrhea (often from over-exercising and under-eating) are common causes of missed periods in young adults.
4. Over-Exercising
Exercise is amazing for your overall health — but too much, especially without proper fuelling, can suppress your period. This is common among athletes, dancers, and those doing high-intensity training every day.
💡 Real Talk: If you’ve ramped up your workouts and noticed your period vanishing, it might be time to check your energy balance.
5. Birth Control and Medications
Certain birth control methods can make your periods irregular or stop altogether — especially hormonal IUDs, the pill, or contraceptive injections. Other meds (like some antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs) can impact your cycle too.
Noticing changes after starting or stopping a medication? Take note and check in with your healthcare provider.
6. Medical Conditions or Infections
Uterine fibroids, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), or other reproductive conditions can lead to irregular bleeding. These usually come with other symptoms like pain, bloating, or spotting between cycles.
💡 Real Talk: Always trust your gut — if something feels off, get it checked out.
When Should I Be Concerned?
Here’s when irregular periods deserve a professional check-in:
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You haven’t had a period in 3+ months
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Your periods are super painful or unusually heavy
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You’re bleeding between periods
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You’re trying to conceive and struggling to track ovulation
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You’re experiencing new symptoms like hair growth, weight gain, or fatigue
Your period is a vital sign of your hormonal health — and irregularities are your body’s way of waving a little flag that it needs support.
How Can I Support My Cycle Naturally?
Let’s talk care. A few lifestyle tweaks can make a big difference for cycle health:
✅ Prioritize sleep — your hormones regulate while you rest
✅ Eat enough, especially healthy fats and protein
✅ Practice stress relief (even 10 mins of breathing or walking helps)
✅ Track your symptoms and patterns
✅ Move your body, but don’t overdo it
And of course — support your period with products that work with your body, not against it.
Our Tip: Don’t Guess, Get Ready
Irregular cycles can be unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean you need to be caught off guard. Our super absorbent period underwear is perfect for those “wait, is it coming?” moments. Whether it’s surprise spotting or an extra heavy day, our breathable, PFAS-free styles have your back (and front).
💌 Favorites for unpredictable periods:
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Charlie: Comfy and ultra-absorbent — great for heavy flow days
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Margo: Sleek and secure — perfect for spotting or discharge days
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Freya: Extra coverage and softness for those “just in case” moments
Final Thoughts
Irregular periods aren’t always something to worry about — but they are worth understanding. Your cycle reflects your overall wellbeing, and any changes are your body’s way of asking for support.
With a little knowledge, care, and comfy period products, you can handle even the most unpredictable cycles with confidence.
