What Are Irregular Periods?

A normal menstrual cycle typically occurs every 21 to 35 days.

Periods may be considered irregular when:

• Cycles vary significantly month to month
• Periods occur less than 21 days apart
• Periods occur more than 35 days apart
• Periods stop for several months
• Bleeding becomes unusually heavy
• Bleeding becomes unusually light
• Menstrual timing becomes unpredictable

While occasional cycle variations can occur, persistent irregularity should be evaluated by a gynecologist.

Common Causes of Irregular Periods

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is one of the most common causes of irregular menstruation among women in Korea.

Symptoms may include:

• Irregular periods
• Missed periods
• Acne
• Weight gain
• Excess facial or body hair
• Difficulty becoming pregnant

Hormonal Imbalances

Changes in reproductive hormones can affect ovulation and menstrual regularity.

Hormones commonly evaluated include:

• Estrogen
• Progesterone
• LH
• FSH
• Prolactin

Thyroid Disorders

Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can interfere with normal menstrual cycles.

Possible symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Weight changes
• Hair loss
• Irregular menstruation

Stress

Physical and emotional stress can affect hormone production and disrupt ovulation.

Common triggers include:

• Work stress
• Academic stress
• Travel
• Sleep disruption

Weight Changes

Significant weight gain or weight loss may affect:

• Hormone levels
• Ovulation
• Menstrual regularity

Perimenopause

Women in their 40s and early 50s often experience menstrual irregularities due to declining ovarian function.

Symptoms may include:

• Irregular cycles
• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Mood changes

Uterine Conditions

Certain gynecological conditions may contribute to abnormal bleeding patterns.

Examples include:

• Uterine fibroids
• Endometrial polyps
• Adenomyosis

Symptoms That Require Evaluation

Schedule a gynecology consultation if you experience:

• Missed periods
• Periods occurring every few months
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Severe menstrual pain
• Bleeding between periods
• Difficulty becoming pregnant
• Sudden changes in cycle patterns
• Menopause-like symptoms before age 40

Diagnosis of Irregular Periods

Gynecological Consultation

Your physician will review:

• Menstrual history
• Pregnancy history
• Medication use
• Lifestyle factors
• Family medical history

Hormone Testing

Blood tests may evaluate:

• Estrogen
• Progesterone
• LH
• FSH
• Prolactin
• Thyroid hormones

Pelvic Ultrasound

Ultrasound can evaluate:

• Ovaries
• Uterus
• Endometrial lining
• Fibroids
• Ovarian cysts

PCOS Evaluation

PCOS assessment often includes:

• Hormone testing
• Ultrasound examination
• Symptom review

Pregnancy Testing

Pregnancy testing may be recommended when periods become unexpectedly delayed.

Treatment Options for Irregular Periods

Treatment depends on the underlying cause.

Hormonal Therapy

Hormonal medications may help regulate menstrual cycles and improve symptoms.

PCOS Management

Treatment may include:

• Lifestyle modification
• Weight management
• Hormonal regulation
• Fertility planning when appropriate

Thyroid Treatment

Correcting thyroid disorders often improves menstrual regularity.

Management of Uterine Conditions

Fibroids, polyps, and other gynecological conditions may require targeted treatment.

Lifestyle Changes

Improving overall health may help regulate menstrual cycles.

Recommendations often include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Regular exercise
• Stress reduction
• Adequate sleep

Irregular Periods and Fertility

Irregular ovulation is a common cause of fertility difficulties.

Women planning pregnancy should seek evaluation if:

• Cycles are consistently irregular
• Ovulation appears absent
• Pregnancy has not occurred despite regular attempts

Early diagnosis can improve fertility outcomes and reproductive planning.

Irregular Period Treatment for International Patients in Korea

Many international patients living in or visiting Seoul seek evaluation for:

• Missed periods
• PCOS
• Hormonal imbalance
• Fertility concerns
• Heavy bleeding
• Perimenopause symptoms

Gangnam clinics often provide:

• English-speaking support
• Same-day consultations
• Ultrasound examinations
• Hormone testing
• Women's health screenings

Frequently Asked Questions (Korea Focus)

Why are my periods irregular after moving to Korea?

Lifestyle changes, stress, travel, dietary changes, jet lag, and adjustment to a new environment can temporarily affect hormone balance and menstrual cycles.

Is PCOS common among women in Korea?

Yes. PCOS is one of the most frequently diagnosed hormonal disorders among reproductive-age women in Korea and worldwide.

How much does irregular period testing cost in Korea?

Costs vary depending on the clinic and tests performed. Consultation, hormone testing, and pelvic ultrasound are commonly included in an evaluation plan.

Can foreigners receive hormone testing in Seoul?

Yes. Many gynecology clinics in Gangnam provide hormone testing, ultrasound examinations, and menstrual health evaluations for international patients.

Do I need an ultrasound for irregular periods?

Pelvic ultrasound is often recommended to evaluate the uterus, ovaries, fibroids, ovarian cysts, or signs of PCOS.

Can stress cause missed periods?

Yes. Significant emotional or physical stress can temporarily disrupt ovulation and menstrual cycles.

Can irregular periods affect fertility?

Yes. Irregular ovulation is one of the leading causes of fertility difficulties and should be evaluated if pregnancy is desired.

When should I see a gynecologist for irregular periods?

You should seek evaluation if periods are consistently irregular, absent for several months, unusually heavy, or accompanied by pelvic pain or fertility concerns.

Are irregular periods normal during perimenopause?

Yes. Many women experience cycle changes and menstrual irregularities during the years leading up to menopause.

Can thyroid problems cause irregular periods?

Yes. Both underactive and overactive thyroid conditions can affect menstrual regularity.