Any change in the cycle pattern, flow or timing of your menstrual cycle from the normal pattern is advised to be further worked up by your doctor.

This is especially important if you are above 35 years old, if you are experiencing any other additional symptoms, or if your menstrual cycle has been very irregular since menarche.

The tests which are carried out may include blood tests for hormonal irregularities, PAP smear or an ultrasound pelvis.

The type of test will be determined based on your history and physical examination findings.

Abnormal vaginal bleeding may be a possible sign of cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer is one of the common gynaecological cancers which is preventable, and detectable at an early stage.

Therefore, it is important for any woman, who has been sexually active before, to always have regular and up to date PAP smears.

Learn More about Cervical Cancer, PAP Smear & HPV Vaccination

There can be many different causes of abnormal irregular bleeding ranging from benign causes like hormonal imbalance to cancer of the cervix or womb.

It is therefore important to have a recent of up to date PAP smear to check for any abnormal cervical cells.

Sometimes, an endometrial biopsy may also be required to rule out womb cancer.

The treatment for irregular menses will depend on the cause of it. You may be prescribed hormonal medications to regulate your menses.

Sometimes, some irregularities in the menstrual cycle may be considered physiological (or normal) especially if a girl has just entered menarche, or if a woman is approaching menopause.

However, this can only be diagnosed after further investigations are done to rule out other abnormal causes.