Missing a period once in a while is usually nothing to panic about. Travel, stress, or even changes in exercise habits can throw your cycle off for a month or two. But what if it keeps happening? If you’ve skipped more than one period — especially if your cycle has become irregular, unpredictable, or has stopped altogether — your body might be trying to tell you something important.
It’s easy to assume irregular periods are just part of life, especially if you’re not currently trying to get pregnant. But your menstrual cycle is closely tied to your overall health, and changes in that rhythm can be an early signal that something’s off. If you’re unsure whether it’s time to seek help, connecting with a Gynecologist Sydney practice can be a great first step to figuring out what’s going on beneath the surface.
What’s Considered “Normal”?
While every person’s cycle is unique, a typical menstrual cycle lasts between 21 and 35 days. That means some people get their period every three weeks, while others go a little longer between cycles — both can be perfectly healthy.
A missed period here and there is often explained by temporary factors. But when it becomes a pattern — or you go more than 3 months without bleeding and you’re not pregnant — it’s considered abnormal and worth looking into.
Common Causes of Missed or Irregular Periods
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to why periods stop or change. Here are some of the most common reasons:
1. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is one of the leading causes of irregular or missed periods. It affects how the ovaries function, and it’s often tied to hormone imbalances, insulin resistance, and small cysts on the ovaries. Some people with PCOS experience very few periods each year — or none at all.
Other possible signs of PCOS include:
- Acne or oily skin
- Excess facial or body hair
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Thinning hair on the scalp
2. Stress
When your body is under chronic stress — whether physical, emotional, or both — it can affect the hypothalamus, which controls hormone signals that regulate your cycle. For some, stress leads to shorter periods; for others, it can stop them entirely.
3. Thyroid Disorders
Both an underactive (hypothyroidism) and overactive (hyperthyroidism) thyroid can interfere with your cycle. Because your thyroid helps regulate your metabolism and hormones, it plays a role in reproductive health too.
4. Significant Weight Changes
Losing or gaining a large amount of weight — especially in a short period of time — can cause your cycle to stop or become irregular. This includes issues like eating disorders, excessive exercise, or extreme dieting.
5. Birth Control or Hormonal Medications
Some hormonal contraceptives can lead to lighter, less frequent, or skipped periods, especially options like the hormonal IUD, implant, or certain pills. This is sometimes by design — but if your period has disappeared completely and you’re unsure if it’s expected, it’s worth checking in.
6. Perimenopause
If you’re in your 40s or approaching your mid-30s, your hormones may begin fluctuating as your body gradually transitions toward menopause. Missed periods are a common early sign.
7. Pregnancy (Even When You Don’t Expect It)
Yes, it’s obvious — but still worth noting. Pregnancy is the most common reason for a missed period in people of reproductive age. And it’s possible to become pregnant even if you’re using contraception.
When Should You Talk to a Doctor?
If you’ve missed more than one period and can’t trace it back to stress, recent weight change, or a known cause, it’s a good idea to speak to a healthcare professional. Other red flags to watch for include:
- A cycle that used to be regular but is now unpredictable
- Going three months or more without a period
- Sudden onset of symptoms like acne, excess hair growth, or mood swings
- Difficulty getting pregnant when trying to conceive
- Pelvic pain or pressure without a clear reason
Getting your hormones and overall health checked can uncover hidden issues — and often, small changes in lifestyle or treatment can make a big difference.
Tracking and Managing Your Cycle
If your periods have become irregular, start by tracking them. Use a period app or a simple calendar to note:
- When (and if) your period starts
- How long it lasts
- Flow levels and symptoms like cramps or mood changes
- Any other health changes you notice
Bringing a clear history to your appointment helps doctors spot patterns and get to the root of the issue faster.
Your Cycle is a Clue — Not Just a Clock
Your period isn’t just a monthly inconvenience — it’s a reflection of your hormonal health. And while the occasional missed period is usually no big deal, consistent changes deserve attention.
Whether you’re trying to conceive, managing symptoms like acne or fatigue, or simply want peace of mind, don’t ignore your body’s signals. Reaching out for help doesn’t mean something is wrong — it means you’re being proactive about your health.