Is Your Period Normal? Warning Signs You Need to See a Doctor

As a woman, you will notice that not only does your menstrual cycle change over the 
years, but your period can also be different as well. This isn’t always a sign that 
something is wrong, but it could be an early sign of things like pregnancy, PCOS or 
endometriosis, hormonal changes, and even perimenopause. Keep reading to learn 
about the signs that your period is not normal and might need medical intervention.


General Signs of Abnormal Periods

Let’s start simple with the main signs of having an abnormal period. While you might not 
necessarily have an abnormal period with one or two of these signs, they can indicate a 
problem that you may want to talk to your doctor about. It is always good to be self 
aware so you know when to seek medical guidance. 

Some possible signs of abnormal periods include:

Skipping your periods for 90 days or longer, or missing them throughout the 
year. This is usually the first thing women notice when their periods are no longer 
normal. You get used to having a period every month, then suddenly are skipping 
periods, or they stop completely. 

Spotting between periods. Some women get slight spotting around the time of 
ovulation, which is about 2 weeks after your period. However, if you get more spotting 
random times throughout your cycle, you might want to talk to your doctor.

Your menstrual flow suddenly changing. Has your amount of menstrual flow 
increased or decreased dramatically? In both cases, it could mean something else is 
going on.

Your menstruation lasting longer or shorter than usual. The number of days you 
are on your period might also change dramatically, such as going from a 6-day cycle to 
one that lasts only 2-3 days, or much longer going past a week or more.


Are Your Cramps Worse Than Normal?

Now, for the detailed signs, including the most common ones that might indicate an 
abnormal period. The first sign you don’t want to ignore is when your cramps might be 
worse than normal. 

Getting menstrual cramps is completely normal. Most women experience them on 
varying degrees each month, usually shortly before your period starts or during the first 
day or two of flow. 

However, if suddenly your cramps become severe, worse than normal, or like it feels 
there is something wrong, that is a good reason to talk to your doctor. 



Are Your Periods Inconsistent?

You might also have irregular periods, which means they aren’t consistent from month 
to month. This doesn’t mean the occasional missed or late period, but a pattern of 
inconsistency and irregularity. 

Maybe you used to always have periods that were 5 days long, but now some are 10-12 
days long, some are 2-3 days long, and some are 5-6 days long. This inconsistency is 
not considered normal for most women.

Do You Bleed in Between Periods?

Bleeding at irregular times can also point to a period that might be abnormal, including 
bleeding in between periods.


