Irregular Periods
While it's normal for menstrual cycles to vary slightly from month to month, more significant or unpredictable changes are considered irregular. A period is typically deemed irregular if:
The time between periods fluctuates or becomes unpredictable
The flow varies from very light to very heavy
The number of bleeding days changes significantly
Some women experience only one of these irregularities, while others may deal with all three. Cycles can also shift between regular and irregular over time.
Common causes of irregular periods include:
IUD insertion
Changes in birth control or medications
Stress
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Thyroid disorders
Hormonal imbalances
Uterine fibroids or polyps
Aging
Treating irregular periods is essential, particularly for women trying to conceive. Many underlying causes of irregular cycles can also affect ovulation, hormone production, egg quality, and the development of a healthy uterine lining—all critical factors for fertility. Irregular periods make it harder to predict ovulation, and since the fertile window lasts just a few days, this uncertainty can significantly reduce the chances of conception in any given cycle.
At TCRA, restoring a regular cycle is a cornerstone of our fertility treatment approach. Ideally, we aim for a 28-day cycle, ovulation around day 14, and about 4 days of moderate bleeding. Each treatment plan is customized to support a woman’s unique physiology and help the body gently return to balance.
Acupuncture, which reduces stress and supports hormonal regulation, is highly effective in promoting cycle regularity. Chinese herbal medicine provides another powerful tool, with formulas tailored to support the follicular phase, ovulation, luteal phase, and menstruation.
The reproductive and women’s health experts at TCRA are experienced in identifying the root causes of irregular periods and creating personalized, effective treatment strategies to restore cycle health and optimize fertility.