At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.
Why Would I Have Two Periods in One Month?
A woman may become concerned that her body is not functioning properly if she experiences two periods in one month. In many cases, this does not indicate that the woman is unhealthy, though any concerns should be addressed with a medical professional. Since most menstrual cycles are around 28 days in length, if a woman starts her period during the first day or two of one month, it is normal to expect the period to start again around the end of the month. Other conditions, such as a hormone imbalance, may also lead to more than one period in a month. If the menstrual periods are less than 23 days apart, or if there is severe pain, fever, or extreme clotting, it is important to see a medical professional to rule out possible serious health conditions.
For a girl who has recently gone through puberty, it may take a while for menstrual cycles to become regular. In this case, two periods in one month is not usually something to be worried about. The cycles will usually regulate themselves within a matter of months. A gynecologist is a doctor who specializes in female reproductive health and can help the girl determine what is normal during this transitional time in her life.
Hormonal imbalance or thyroid dysfunction may lead to more frequent periods as well. This is particularly common in women who are going through the process of menopause, a signal that a woman's reproductive years are drawing to a close. Hormone therapy is often successful in helping to regulate the cycles if this becomes a common occurrence.
Abnormal masses, such as cysts, polyps, or fibroids, in the uterus also may be responsible for causing two periods in one month. These masses may lead to significant pain as well as disruptions in the normal menstrual cycle. In some cases, medication can help alleviate the symptoms, though surgical intervention is frequently needed.
There are certain situations that should prompt a woman who has had several in one month to visit a medical professional. If the bleeding is heavy, and there is more pain and cramping than normal, an expert should be consulted right away. If the patient is passing large, dark clots, and this does not usually happen during her period, a healthcare provider should be consulted. Excess bleeding can lead to a variety of medical conditions, including anemia. For this reason, it is of great importance to report any menstrual changes or concerns to a medical professional.
AS FEATURED ON:
AS FEATURED ON:
-
![Menopause can cause hormonal imbalances that lead to experiencing two periods in a month.]()
By: Ana Blazic PavlovicMenopause can cause hormonal imbalances that lead to experiencing two periods in a month. -
![It's not unusual for a girl who has just gone through puberty to have unusual menstrual cycles at first.]()
By: DoraZettIt's not unusual for a girl who has just gone through puberty to have unusual menstrual cycles at first. -
![Pain and a disruption in the normal menstrual cycle can indicate abnormal masses in the uterus.]()
By: sframePain and a disruption in the normal menstrual cycle can indicate abnormal masses in the uterus. -
![A heavy or abnormal menstrual flow could indicate a case of endometriosis.]()
By: ryanking999A heavy or abnormal menstrual flow could indicate a case of endometriosis. -
![Excessive exercise may cause an irregular menstrual period.]()
By: stuchinExcessive exercise may cause an irregular menstrual period. -
![Heavy bleeding and cramping should be investigated by a medical professional immediately.]()
By: Vlad IvantcovHeavy bleeding and cramping should be investigated by a medical professional immediately.
Discussion Comments
I got my period 23 days ago and today a period like cramp woke me up but it didn't last long at all. I always get cramps before my period starts, but I was wondering if it were to start today or tomorrow -- is that normal? Also, my boyfriend and I have been having sex, but always protected and he tries to pull out and ejaculate inside the condom but outside of me, so I don't know if that's it, but still could I be pregnant? Is this normal?
Last month I started my period a week early and it only lasted for three days. Now, two weeks later, I have had another period. The blood over the last couple of months has been much darker than usual and there is some clotting. I have also had some pain with it.
I have always had very regular 28 day cycles with a five-day period. I'm getting very concerned. I feel rather tearful also and I have had a few pregnancy symptoms such as sore breasts, bigger appetite, nausea, and I dislike for the smell or taste of alcohol. I usually enjoy a glass or two of wine. Any advice is much appreciated. I have an appointment with the doc but not until Tuesday.
I went off my period on the 13th and a week and a half passed. I had unprotected sex with my husband then I had another period in the same month. Now I'm spotting. I would like to know why that is.
@browncoat - You really need to make sure you keep good records to give to your doctor as well.
A couple of times I've been put on a new birth control pill and had bleeding months afterwards that seemed like another period.
So don't worry too much if you are on the pill. It might just be that your body didn't adjust in the long run and is now protesting.
Unfortunately, unless it is heavy, your doctor is likely to simply tell you to grin and bear it for a few months and see if it comes under control.
So, it is important to keep records, so you can prove if you are simply having two periods a month, or if there is an ongoing problem with your medication.
It's a really good idea to keep a little record of your periods. I only started doing this myself at the beginning of the year, but it has been really useful so far.
All I do is put a little P on the yearly sheet at the front of my diary, on the day that my period starts, although you might want to note when it ends as well.
I have somewhat irregular periods and I was actually surprised to note that they actually do have a pattern, even if it isn't the usual one.
But this record keeping would help you to know if you've had 2 periods in one month or if you have simply lost track of when you had the last one.
Post your comments