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Irregular periods

Irregular periods are not usually a sign of a problem. But speak to a GP if your periods are irregular or your normal pattern of periods changes.

If these symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.

Prescription review online

Prescription review online

A doctor will review your case and issue a prescription if medically appropriate.

Talk to a doctor online

Talk to a doctor online

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.

This page provides general information and does not replace a doctor’s consultation. If symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.

Irregular periods are not usually a sign of a problem. But speak to a GP if your periods are irregular or your normal pattern of periods changes.

What are irregular periods?

The average gap between periods starting (the menstrual cycle) is around 28 days. It can sometimes be a bit shorter or longer.

A woman's periods are irregular if the gap between them is less than 21 days or more than 35 days.

Irregular periods can affect anyone who has periods.

It's more likely for your periods to be irregular when they first start during puberty, and when you're nearing menopause.

Keeping track of your periods

Using an app or a diary to keep track of your periods can help you see if they're irregular.

Day 1 of your menstrual cycle is the first day of your period. The last day of your cycle is the day before your next period.

Causes of irregular periods

Common causes of irregular periods include:

  • puberty, when you start your periods
  • the start of menopause (usually between the ages of 45 and 55)
  • pregnancy – a missed period is often an early sign of pregnancy
  • hormonal contraception like the progestogen-only pill, contraceptive injection and intrauterine system (IUS)
  • losing or gaining a lot of weight
  • stress and anxiety
  • exercising too much

Sometimes, conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and an underactive thyroid gland can cause irregular periods.

 See a GP if: 

  • your periods are irregular
  • your periods last longer than 7 days
  • you have irregular periods and other symptoms like weight gain, tiredness, hair growth on your face and dry or oily skin
  • your periods are irregular and you're struggling to get pregnant

Treatments for irregular periods

Treatment is not always needed for irregular periods.

The GP may refer you to a specialist (gynaecologist) if you need tests to find out what's causing your irregular periods. If treatment is needed it will depend on the cause.

For example, if a condition like polycystic ovary syndrome is causing irregular periods, the combined pill may help make your periods more regular.

Trying for a baby

Getting pregnant can be more difficult if you have irregular periods because you might not release an egg (ovulate) regularly.

It can help to have sex every 2 or 3 days throughout your cycle without using contraception.

If you're struggling to get pregnant, hormone medicine or fertility treatment may be recommended.

Read more about trying to get pregnant.

Consult with a doctor about Irregular periods

Consult with a doctor about Irregular periods

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.

Online doctors for Irregular periods

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps for Irregular periods with a doctor online.

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Doctor

Hocine Lokchiri

General medicine 21 years exp.

Dr. Hocine Lokchiri is a French consultant with over 20 years of experience in General and Emergency Medicine. He works with adults and children, helping patients with urgent symptoms, infections, sudden health changes and everyday medical concerns that require timely evaluation. His background includes clinical practice in France, Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates, which allows him to navigate different healthcare systems and manage a wide range of conditions with confidence. Patients value his calm, structured approach, clear explanations and evidence-based decision-making.

Online consultations with Dr. Lokchiri are suitable for many situations when someone needs quick medical guidance, reassurance or a clear next step. Common reasons for booking include:

  • fever, chills, fatigue and viral symptoms
  • cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, breathing discomfort
  • bronchitis and mild asthma flare-ups
  • nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, digestive infections
  • rashes, allergic reactions, redness, insect bites
  • muscle or joint pain, mild injuries, sprains
  • headache, dizziness, migraine symptoms
  • stress-related symptoms, sleep disturbances
  • questions about test results and treatment plans
  • management of chronic conditions in stable phases
Many patients reach out when symptoms appear suddenly and cause concern, when a child becomes unwell unexpectedly, when a rash changes or spreads, or when it’s unclear whether an in-person examination is necessary. His emergency medicine background is particularly valuable online, helping patients understand risk levels, identify warning signs and choose safe next steps.

Some situations are not suitable for online care. If a patient has loss of consciousness, severe chest pain, uncontrolled bleeding, seizures, major trauma or symptoms suggesting a stroke or heart attack, he will advise seeking immediate local emergency services. This improves safety and ensures patients receive the right level of care.

Dr. Lokchiri’s professional training includes:

  • Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS)
  • Basic and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (BLS/ACLS)
  • Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
  • Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS)
  • eFAST and critical care transthoracic echocardiography
  • aviation medicine
He is an active member of several professional organisations, including the French Society of Emergency Medicine (SFMU), the French Association for Emergency Physicians (AMUF) and the Swiss Society of Emergency and Rescue Medicine (SGNOR). In consultations, he works with clarity and precision, helping patients understand their symptoms, possible risks and the safest treatment options.
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Doctor

Karim BenHarbi

General medicine 9 years exp.

Dr. Karim Ben Harbi is a licensed general practitioner based in Italy. He provides online consultations for adults and children, combining international clinical experience with evidence-based medicine. His care approach is focused on accurate diagnosis, preventive care, and personalised health guidance.

Dr. Ben Harbi received his medical degree from Sapienza University in Rome. His training included hands-on experience in diverse settings — tropical medicine, rural healthcare, and urban outpatient practice. He also conducted clinical research in microbiology, exploring the role of the gut microbiome in chronic gastrointestinal issues.

You can consult Dr. Ben Harbi for:

  • General health concerns, prevention, and primary care.
  • Hypertension, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, metabolic issues.
  • Cold, cough, flu, respiratory infections, sore throat, fever.
  • Chronic digestive issues: bloating, gastritis, IBS, microbiome imbalance.
  • Skin rashes, mild allergic reactions, basic dermatological complaints.
  • Medication guidance, treatment adjustments, prescription review.
  • Paediatric concerns — fever, infections, general well-being.
  • Lifestyle optimisation: stress, sleep, weight, and diet counselling.

Dr. Ben Harbi offers reliable, accessible medical support through online consultations, helping patients make informed decisions about their health with a clear, structured, and compassionate approach.

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Doctor

Yevgen Yakovenko

General surgery 12 years exp.

Dr. Yevgen Yakovenko is a licensed surgeon and general practitioner in Spain and Germany. He specialises in general, paediatric, and oncological surgery, internal medicine, and pain management. He offers online consultations for adults and children, combining surgical precision with therapeutic support. Dr Yakovenko works with patients across different countries and provides care in Ukrainian, Russian, English, and Spanish.

Areas of medical expertise:

  • Acute and chronic pain: headaches, muscle and joint pain, back pain, abdominal pain, postoperative pain. Identifying the cause, selecting treatment, and creating a care plan.
  • Internal medicine: heart, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, urinary system. Management of chronic conditions, symptom control, second opinions.
  • Pre- and postoperative care: risk assessment, decision-making support, follow-up after surgery, rehabilitation strategies.
  • General and paediatric surgery: hernias, appendicitis, congenital conditions, both planned and urgent surgeries.
  • Injuries and trauma: bruises, fractures, sprains, soft tissue damage, wound care, dressing, referral when in-person care is required.
  • Oncological surgery: diagnosis review, treatment planning, and long-term follow-up.
  • Obesity treatment and weight management: a medical approach to weight loss, including assessment of underlying causes, evaluation of comorbidities, development of a personalised plan (nutrition, physical activity, pharmacotherapy if needed), and ongoing progress monitoring.
  • Imaging interpretation: analysis of ultrasound, CT, MRI, and X-ray results, surgical planning based on imaging data.
  • Second opinions and medical navigation: clarifying diagnoses, reviewing current treatment plans, helping patients choose the best course of action.

Experience and qualifications:

  • 12+ years of clinical experience in university hospitals in Germany and Spain.
  • International education: Ukraine – Germany – Spain.
  • Member of the German Society of Surgeons (BDC).
  • Certified in radiological diagnostics and robotic surgery.
  • Active participant in international medical conferences and research.

Dr Yakovenko explains complex topics in a clear, accessible way. He works collaboratively with patients to analyse health issues and make evidence-based decisions. His approach is grounded in clinical excellence, scientific accuracy, and respect for each individual.

If you are unsure about a diagnosis, preparing for surgery, or want to discuss your test results – Dr Yakovenko will help you evaluate your options and move forward with confidence.

5.0 (2)
Doctor

Svetlana Kolomeeva

Cardiology 18 years exp.

Dr. Svetlana Kolomeeva is a general practitioner and internal medicine doctor providing online consultations for adults. She helps patients manage acute symptoms, chronic conditions, and preventive care. Her clinical focus includes cardiovascular health, hypertension control, and managing symptoms like fatigue, weakness, sleep issues, and overall low energy.

Patients commonly seek her help for:

  • High blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, swelling, palpitations.
  • Diagnosis and management of hypertension, arrhythmias, and tachycardia.
  • Metabolic syndrome, excess weight, high cholesterol.
  • Chronic fatigue, insomnia, poor concentration, anxiety.
  • Respiratory symptoms: colds, flu, sore throat, cough, fever.
  • Digestive issues: heartburn, bloating, constipation, IBS symptoms.
  • Chronic conditions: diabetes, thyroid disorders.
  • Interpretation of lab tests and medical reports, therapy adjustment.
  • Second opinion and decision-making support.
  • Cardiovascular disease prevention and metabolic risk reduction.
  • Long-term follow-up and dynamic health monitoring.

Dr Kolomeeva combines clinical expertise with personalised care. She clearly explains diagnoses, guides patients through symptoms and treatment options, and provides actionable plans. Her consultations are designed not only to address current complaints but also to stabilise chronic conditions and prevent future complications. She supports patients through every stage of care – from first symptoms to ongoing health management.

5.0 (32)
Doctor

Anna Biriukova

General medicine 6 years exp.

Dr Anna Biriukova is an internal medicine doctor with clinical experience in cardiology, endocrinology, and gastroenterology. She provides online consultations for adults, offering expert medical support for heart health, hormonal balance, digestive issues, and general internal medicine.

Cardiology – Diagnosis and treatment of:

  • High blood pressure, blood pressure fluctuations, and cardiovascular risk prevention.
  • Chest pain, shortness of breath, arrhythmias (tachycardia, bradycardia, palpitations).
  • Leg swelling, chronic fatigue, reduced exercise tolerance.
  • EKG interpretation, lipid profile evaluation, cardiovascular risk assessment (heart attack, stroke).
  • Post-COVID-19 cardiac monitoring and care.
Endocrinology – Diabetes, thyroid, metabolism:
  • Diagnosis and management of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and prediabetes.
  • Individual treatment plans including oral medications and insulin therapy.
  • GLP-1 therapy– modern pharmacological treatment for weight management and diabetes control, including drug selection, monitoring, and safety follow-up.
  • Thyroid disorders – hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, autoimmune thyroid diseases (Hashimoto’s, Graves’ disease).
  • Metabolic syndrome – obesity, lipid disorders, insulin resistance.
Gastroenterology – Digestive health:
  • Abdominal pain, nausea, heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux (GERD).
  • Stomach and intestinal conditions: gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), indigestion.
  • Management of chronic digestive disorders and interpretation of tests (endoscopy, ultrasound, labs).
General internal medicine and preventive care:
  • Respiratory infections – cough, colds, bronchitis.
  • Lab test analysis, therapy adjustments, medication management.
  • Adult vaccinations – planning, contraindications assessment.
  • Cancer prevention – screening strategies and risk assessment.
  • Holistic approach – symptom relief, complication prevention, and quality of life improvement.
Dr Biriukova combines internal medicine with specialist insight, offering clear explanations, personalised treatment plans, and comprehensive care tailored to each patient.
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