What Does “Irregular Periods” Really Mean? A Clinically Rooted Guide to Your Cycle’s Natural Rhythms
We often inherit language around our periods that’s vague, dismissive, or wrapped in shame. “Irregular” is one of those words—used loosely, yet packed with meaning when viewed through a clinical and holistic lens.
This guide is for the ones tuning in more closely. For those asking: Is this normal? And for anyone ready to understand what their cycle is really saying.
What Does a “Regular” Cycle Actually Look Like?
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and FIGO, a healthy cycle:
Flows every 24–38 days
Is consistent—no more than 7–9 days variation between cycles
Bleeds for 2–8 days
Doesn’t involve soaking through pads/tampons every 1–2 hours for multiple hours
These rhythms aren’t about perfection—they’re about predictability, a sign your hormones are dancing in sync.
🚩 When Is a Period Clinically “Irregular”?
If your cycle consistently falls outside those markers, it may be described as Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB). This might show up as:
Short or long cycles (<24 or >38 days)
Big variations between cycles (>9 days difference)
Infrequent periods (fewer than 9 in a year)
Bleeding longer than 8 days, or less than 2
Mid-cycle bleeding or spotting between periods
What Could Be Causing This?
Your period is a vital sign—a mirror for your internal ecosystem. Disruptions may arise from:
Hormonal shifts: PCOS, thyroid issues, perimenopause
Stress (the deep kind—physical, emotional, or spiritual)
Changes in diet or body composition
Structural issues: fibroids, endometrial polyps
Medications or transitions off birth control
When to Seek Support
If your period feels unpredictable, missing, too intense—or just “off”—you don’t have to normalize it.
As a naturopathic doctor, I support patients in root-cause cycle care: not just balancing hormones, but reconnecting with the rhythms of the body, mind, and spirit.
The disclaimer… The amazing thing about humans is that we all have incomparably unique health profiles and needs. The health-related information contained in this article is intended to be general in nature and should not be used prescriptively or as a substitute for a visit with a naturopathic doctor/health care provider. This info is intended to offer general information to individuals. If you have questions about how these strategies could be used in adjunct to your current health regime, book an appointment with us or consult a licensed naturopathic doctor for individualized care.