Your menstrual cycle can offer important clues about your overall health—but many women aren’t sure what’s considered “normal.” Irregular cycles, heavy bleeding, or severe pain can be easy to dismiss, but they could also be signs that something more is going on. Here’s what you need to know about your menstrual cycle, common concerns, and when it’s time to talk to your doctor.
What Does a Normal Menstrual Cycle Look Like?
While every woman’s cycle is a little different, a typical menstrual cycle:
- Lasts 21 to 35 days, with bleeding that lasts 2 to 7 days
- May include mild cramping, fatigue, or mood changes
Some variation is completely normal—especially during adolescence, perimenopause, or after starting or stopping birth control. But big shifts in your cycle or severe symptoms aren’t something you have to just live with.
Signs Your Period Might Not Be Normal
Talk to your doctor if you experience:
- Cycles shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days
- Missing periods (when not pregnant or on hormonal birth control)
- Bleeding that’s very heavy (soaking through a pad or tampon every hour)
- Severe cramps that interfere with daily activities
- Spotting or bleeding between periods
- Sudden changes in flow, timing, or symptoms
Common Menstrual Health Conditions
Menstrual irregularities can be caused by a number of underlying health issues. Some of the most common include:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):
A hormonal disorder that can cause irregular periods, acne, excess facial hair, and fertility issues.
Endometriosis:
Occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, often causing severe pain and heavy periods.
Uterine Fibroids:
Noncancerous growths in the uterus that may cause heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, or longer periods.
Don’t Ignore Mental and Emotional Changes
Hormonal shifts throughout your cycle can affect more than just your body. If you’re experiencing intense mood changes, irritability, anxiety, or depression before your period, it could be PMS or PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder)—a more severe condition that can interfere with daily life. These symptoms are real, valid, and treatable, so don’t hesitate to bring them up with your provider.
How Your Period Changes Through Life Stages
Your cycle evolves over time—and knowing what’s normal at each stage can help you stay ahead of potential issues.
- Puberty: The Cycle Begins
- The first few years of menstruation are often irregular.
- Cycles may range from 21 to 45 days.
- Watch for: No period by age 16, very heavy bleeding, or irregular cycles after two years.
- Young Adulthood
- Cycles often become more consistent.
- Mild cramps and mood swings are common.
- Watch for: Missed periods, severe symptoms, or irregular cycles after years of regularity.
- Reproductive Years: Stability & Shifts
- Many experience stable cycles, though childbirth can change symptoms.
- Watch for: Heavier bleeding, worsening cramps, or symptoms of fibroids or endometriosis.
- Perimenopause (Mid-40s to Early 50s)
- Hormone levels fluctuate, leading to irregular or skipped periods.
- You may also experience hot flashes, sleep changes, and mood shifts.
- Watch for: Very heavy or frequent bleeding, spotting between cycles.
- Menopause (Typically Around Age 51)
- Menopause is defined by 12 consecutive months without a period.
- Any bleeding after menopause is not normal and should be evaluated.
When to See a Doctor
If your period is interfering with your quality of life—physically, emotionally, or mentally—it’s time to speak up. Many menstrual conditions are manageable with the right diagnosis and care. Keeping track of your cycle and symptoms (via an app or calendar) can make it easier to spot patterns and share concerns with your provider.
Listen to Your Body
Your period is part of your health story. Knowing what’s normal for you—and when something feels off—can help you stay in tune with your body and catch concerns early. You don’t have to suffer through painful or irregular periods. Help is available, and you deserve to feel your best every day of the month.
Need help managing your menstrual health? Our women’s health specialists are here to support you every step of the way.