Heavy or painful periods and troublesome irregular bleeding is one of the most common reasons that women consult their GP or gynaecologist.

Sometimes periods don't come as often as expected or even at all and this can be just as worrying, particularly if you are trying to get pregnant.

The pages below discuss a few of the common causes of period problems, with links to other helpful information.

Uterine fibroids Although they are benign, fibroids can cause all sorts of period problems.		Endometriosis Painful periods and discomfort during intercourse are typical symptoms, but there are others.
Polycystic ovary syndrome This condition can lead to heavy, irregular, infrequent or absent periods.		No periods after the Pill Sometimes things change when you stop the contraceptive Pill.
Diagnostic laparoscopy If your periods are painful, you may need a laparoscopy to get to the bottom of it.		Mirena IUS This treatment may be recommended to help avoid the need for surgery for heavy periods
Links to other useful information
Hysterectomy Information about why hysterectomy is done, how it is done, the benefits and risks.		Endometriosis Information from the NZ Best Treatments website about endometriosis.
Fibroids Best Treatments have a review of fibroids and treatments to help the symptoms.		Pelvic inflammatory disease Sometimes infections can cause irregular periods. Some information about PID.
Heavy periods What treatments are available for heavy periods, both tablets and operations.		Combined Pill The Pill is sometimes advised for heavy or irregular periods.

Danny Tucker
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist