What are irregular menstrual periods?
A woman with irregular menstrual periods has bleeding in between menstrual periods, or has periods that do not occur at regular intervals. Menstrual periods occur due to changes in hormones. A small change in hormones can cause periods to become abnormal. Normal menstrual bleeding should last 3 to 5 days. Most women lose less than one cup of blood during a normal menstrual period. Dysfunctional uterine bleeding is a common cause of irregular menstrual bleeding.

What are the symptoms of irregular menstrual periods?
Symptoms of irregular menstrual periods include bleeding between normal periods, fewer than 21 days between periods, more than 35 days between periods, and menstrual periods that last for longer than 7 days.

How does the doctor treat irregular menstrual periods?
Treatment for irregular menstrual periods may include oral contraceptives. In some cases, dilation and curettage (D and C) may be required for persistent or severe menstrual bleeding.