Mood swings, uncomfortable cramps and eating everything that isn’t nailed down to your kitchen counter is just the beginning of what some women have to deal with once a month when “Aunt Flow” comes a knockin’!  But even though the PMS fog has lifted, you're still experiencing strange irregularities - scratching your head wondering “Hey, is that really normal??”

To break down the “facts” from the “fiction”, Fertility Specialist Dr. Ari Baratz from CReATe Fertility Center filled us in on when which period symptoms are healthy, and which should prompt a visit to your trusted gynocologist!

What is a 'normal' period? 

According to Dr. Baratz, while 60% of women between the ages of 25 and 35 DO get their periods regularly (consistent duration of flow, amount of flow and appearing every 25 – 28 days), some women may experience a lighter flow, two periods in one month, or no period at all.

Sound familiar? Don't panic yet – irregularities do not ALWAYS mean there is reason to fret. He tells us:

“Minor changes in duration of flow or amount of flow are usually not concerning, unless they occur after a recent pregnancy, miscarriage or surgical procedure.  As a fertility specialist, a subtle or “minor” change that is always concerning to me is a cycle that becomes more frequent (ex. more than one period in a month).  This may be a sign of ovarian insufficiency and should be checked in women who are trying to conceive or those concerned about their fertility potential.”

If you don’t get your period at all and are sexually active, or experience other “major” changes to your cycle, Dr. Baratz advises to contact your doctor to rule out pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections or possible endocrine disturbances (ex. Thyroid changes).

The Birth Control Pill

For those who are on or have been on an Oral Contraceptive Pill, you have probably heard it all!  The truth is, birth control has come a long way over the years.  Prolonged usage has even shown to protect against certain cancers of the ovary and the uterus, and in fact worrying that your fertility might be reduced with extended use are less concerning according to Dr. Baratz.

“The oral contraceptive pill has no negative effect on women’s fertility.”  He stresses that once you get into your late 30’s, age is more likely to be the factor.

That rumor of needing to take an “OCP Holiday”?  Not necessary, states Dr. Baratz.  “In general, many of the fears relating to prolonged OCP exposure or risks of OCP use were associated with older versions of OCP’s that had much higher estrogen concentrations. Current formulations use much lower doses.”

However, if you do stop and start the pill, it can result in “chaotic” cycles taking about 3 months to regulate again. Importantly, if you are a smoker, have a personal or family history of blood clots or suffer from significant migraine headaches consult your doctor before starting any form of oral contraception.

The Morning After Pill

Another reason you may experience an irregular cycle is if you recently took the “Morning After Pill.”  Proven to be very effective, says Dr. Baratz: “95% effective at preventing pregnancy if taken within 24 hours, 58% effective if taken within 72 hours”, BUT it can delay your next expected period up to 3 weeks.

“If a period does not come within 3 weeks of taking the morning after pill, it is important for the woman to get a pregnancy test as soon as possible.  The next menstrual cycle should return to normal, but if persistent changes occur, a pregnancy test and visit to a physician is warranted.”

In the end, no one knows your body better then you do. If you have lingering concerns or are experiencing consistent irregularities do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with your family physician.  Sometimes ease of mind is just the right medicine!

Dr. Baratz is a staff gynecologist at Women's College Hospital and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, in addition to his work at the CReATe Centre.

by Katie Coristine