Irregular Periods in Teenagers: What’s Normal During Puberty?

Puberty is a hormonal roller coaster — and irregular periods are very normal in the first 2–3 years after menarche. Still, there are times when “normal puberty” crosses into “let’s check this out.” At Be. Women’s Health in Frisco, TX, we help families understand the difference.

What’s normal for teens:

✔ Cycles that vary month to month
✔ Periods that come every 21–45 days
✔ Occasional skipped months
✔ Mild cramps or mood swings

When it may not be normal:

• No period by age 15
• Cycles consistently longer than 45 days
• Going 3+ months without a period
• Extremely heavy bleeding
• Periods lasting longer than 7 days
• Severe acne or excess hair growth
• Sudden weight changes
• Signs of thyroid imbalance

Possible causes:

• PCOS
• Thyroid disorders
• Stress
• Excess exercise
• Eating changes
• Puberty-related anovulation

Puberty doesn’t have to be confusing — we’re here to make it easier.

If your teen’s cycles seem irregular, schedule an evaluation at Be. Women’s Health in Frisco.