Your menstrual cycle is a significant part of your life, beginning between ages 10 and 15 and continuing until menopause, typically around age 50. While changes in your period are common, understanding what’s normal versus abnormal can help you recognize when medical attention is needed. At Arcadia Ob/Gyn in Midtown Manhattan, Robert Berg, MD, provides expert care to help you navigate these changes confidently. Schedule an appointment today by calling the office or booking online.
A period is your body's way of shedding the uterine lining, which builds up each month to support pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, this lining is released through menstrual bleeding, and your cycle begins again.
A normal period:● Lasts no more than eight days.● Occurs within a menstrual cycle of 24 to 38 days.
Tracking your cycle can help you monitor changes over time. It’s common for menstruation to fluctuate, especially during teen years and leading up to menopause.
Your period may be considered abnormal if:● Your cycle is shorter than 24 days or longer than 38 days.● You experience bleeding between periods.● You have bleeding after sex.● You notice bleeding after menopause.● You experience heavy menstrual bleeding.● Your period lasts longer than eight days.
If you have any of these symptoms, contact Arcadia Ob/Gyn for an evaluation.
Several conditions can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, including:● Fibroids.● Ovarian cysts.● Polyps.● Ovulation issues.● Miscarriage.● Ectopic pregnancy.● Certain gynecological cancers.● Endometriosis.
Additionally, heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) can significantly impact your quality of life, and treatment options are available.
Dr. Berg performs a comprehensive assessment, starting with a discussion of your symptoms and medical history, followed by a physical and pelvic exam. If necessary, he may conduct on-site diagnostic testing to determine the cause of your abnormal periods.
Depending on the diagnosis, Dr. Berg may recommend:● Hormonal birth control to regulate cycles.● Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief.● Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists to temporarily stop menstruation.● Tranexamic acid to reduce heavy bleeding.
If conservative treatments are ineffective, surgical options may be considered based on the underlying condition.