Irregular Periods
When your cycle doesn’t feel right
Irregular periods aren’t just inconvenient, it’s often your body’s way of telling you something isn’t quite right. Maybe your cycle comes too often, skips months, or changes without warning. Perhaps you’ve noticed spotting before or after your period, or bleeding between. Even if you’ve been told “it’s probably just stress,” it’s worth getting it checked out. By someone who won’t disregard your concerns.
What Are Irregular Periods?
Some variation in cycle length is normal, but persistent unpredictable bleeding can be your body’s early warning sign of a hormonal imbalance, reproductive health issue, or gynaecological disorder that needs investigating.
It may include:
Cycles that change month to month or skip entirely
Bleeding between periods (intermenstrual bleeding)
Spotting before or after your period
Sudden changes in cycle length, heaviness, or regularity
Even if the symptoms come and go, it may still be worth exploring.
What Can Cause Irregular Periods?
Irregular periods are a symptom, it’s rarely the whole story. Dr Tan will work with you to explore the possible causes, such as:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
A common hormonal condition that affects ovulation, metabolism, and insulin regulation. It can lead to irregular periods, acne, or unwanted hair growth. Early treatment can help protect both fertility and long-term health.
Thyroid or Pituitary Disorders
Because your menstrual hormones are influenced by your endocrine system, issues with the thyroid or pituitary gland can affect cycle regularity.
Hormonal Imbalances
Stress, weight changes, excessive exercise, or illness can disrupt the hormones that control your cycle.
Postpartum or Perimenopausal hormone shifts
Hormone fluctuations after childbirth, due to breastfeeding, or during menopause can alter bleeding patterns.
Uterine Conditions
These include fibroids, endometrial polyps, or adenomyosis can cause erratic bleeding.
How Dr Tan Investigates Irregular Periods
Dr Tan offers a thorough and caring approach to helping you to understand your cycle. It’s not just about a diagnosis, it’s about understanding what’s happening in your body and why. You may be offered:
Cycle tracking to understand symptoms and patterns
Pelvic ultrasound to assess the uterus and ovaries
Blood tests to check hormone levels
Office hysteroscopy – a quick, well-tolerated procedure performed in private rooms without general anaesthetic thanks to special equipment and skilled techniques. Most women feel only mild cramping.
Personalised Treatment That Works for You
Menstrual health is complex, and everyone has different goals or preferences. That’s why Dr Tan will thoughtfully tailor your treatment to your goals and stage of life, whether you're trying to conceive, need help regulating your cycle, or navigating perimenopause. Each option is explained clearly to help you make informed decisions with confidence, and may include:
Hormonal therapies to stabilise or regulate your cycle
Ovulation support for women with PCOS or fertility concerns
Minimally invasive surgery (such as advanced laparoscopy or hysteroscopy) for surgical treatment of fibroids, polyps, or other structural causes. Advanced techniques focus on optimising recovery and preserving fertility.
Lifestyle support through a network of trusted dietitians, psychologists, women’s health physiotherapists, and integrative health practitioners.
Together, we will build a holistic plan that supports your overall wellbeing.
Why Choose Dr I-Ferne Tan?
Dr Tan combines a deep understanding of hormones that regulate your cycle with surgical expertise, to ensure that you have access to all the treatment options available, whatever the condition. She is fellowship trained in advanced laparoscopic surgery (keyhole) with a focus on fertility preserving surgical techniques. Women appreciate her for her expertise and compassionate care. But more importantly, she will take the time to listen, investigate thoroughly, and explain your treatment clearly, so you feel confident moving forward.
If you're feeling unsure, frustrated, or simply a second opinion, Dr Tan is here to help.