Most people experience some variation in their menstrual cycle from time to time. Maybe your period arrived a few days early, your flow seemed lighter than usual, or your usual symptoms felt more intense. While occasional changes are normal, persistent irregularities can signal that something deeper is affecting your hormones and overall health.
Hormones play a central role in regulating your menstrual cycle—impacting everything from flow and cycle length to cramping and mood. When these hormones shift out of balance, your body often lets you know through changes in your period.
How Hormones Regulate Your Cycle
Your menstrual cycle is a finely tuned process coordinated by several key hormones—primarily estrogen, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH). These hormones work in harmony to prepare the uterus for pregnancy each month.
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Estrogen helps thicken the uterine lining and triggers ovulation.
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Progesterone maintains that lining in case of pregnancy and drops if conception doesn’t occur, leading to menstruation.
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FSH and LH control the growth and release of eggs from the ovaries.
When stress, illness, or hormonal disorders disrupt this rhythm, you may notice your cycle becoming unpredictable.
At Medical City Plano, Dr. Leveno, an experienced OB-GYN, helps women understand what their cycle is telling them. By identifying the underlying cause of irregularities, he provides personalized care plans to help restore balance and improve comfort throughout every phase of your cycle.
Common Causes of Menstrual Changes
There’s no one-size-fits-all reason for period changes. However, several common factors can affect how regularly—and how comfortably—your body cycles.
Stress
When you’re under prolonged stress, your body produces more cortisol, a hormone that can interfere with reproductive hormones. This may cause late or missed periods, heavier bleeding, or more painful cramps.
Thyroid Disorders
Both an overactive and underactive thyroid can cause irregular or absent periods. Because the thyroid regulates metabolism and hormone production, even small imbalances can impact your cycle.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a hormonal condition that affects how the ovaries function. It can cause infrequent or prolonged periods, acne, weight changes, and increased hair growth. Dr. Leveno works closely with patients to diagnose PCOS and develop treatment plans that support hormonal balance and fertility goals.
Perimenopause
In the years leading up to menopause, hormone levels fluctuate significantly. Periods may become lighter, heavier, or more spaced out. These changes are normal but can still cause bothersome symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep issues that Dr. Leveno can help manage.
Birth Control or Medication Changes
Starting, stopping, or switching hormonal birth control can temporarily alter your cycle as your body adjusts to new hormone levels. Some medications, including certain antidepressants or blood thinners, can also affect menstrual patterns.
When to See a Doctor
While the occasional irregular period is common, certain changes should prompt a professional evaluation. Schedule a visit with a physician, such as Dr. Leveno, if you notice:
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Periods that come more than 35 days apart or less than 21 days apart
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Missing more than three periods in a row (and you’re not pregnant)
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Unusually heavy bleeding or passing large clots
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Severe cramps or pelvic pain that disrupt daily activities
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Spotting between periods or after intercourse
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Sudden changes in flow or cycle length without an obvious cause
These symptoms can be linked to treatable conditions, and early evaluation can prevent complications and improve quality of life.
How Dr. Leveno Can Help
Dr. Leveno in Plano, takes a personalized approach to women’s health, focusing on the root cause of hormonal changes rather than just symptoms. His care may include bloodwork, imaging, tailored treatment plans, and support for conditions like PCOS, thyroid disorders, or perimenopause. He also guides patients in managing stress and maintaining hormone balance—helping each woman feel informed, confident, and in control of her health.
Regain Confidence in Your Cycle
Your period isn’t just a monthly inconvenience—it’s a vital sign that reflects your hormonal and reproductive health. Paying attention to changes can help you catch imbalances early and prevent long-term issues.
Whether you’re struggling with irregular cycles, painful cramps, or sudden shifts in flow, Dr. Leveno provides compassionate, evidence-based care to help restore balance and improve your well-being.
Find the right support for your body. Book an appointment with Dr. Leveno, OB-GYN at Medical City Plano, to discuss your menstrual health and create a plan that helps you feel your best every month.