Full Circle Integrative Health
Many women expect their menstrual cycle to run like clockwork. But if you once had regular periods and now find that your cycle is becoming irregular, or it your period has stopped altogether, it can feel confusing and frustrating. When pregnancy is ruled out, missed periods or irregular cycles may be a sign that the ovaries are not functioning properly.
Some women also notice pelvic cramping, breast tenderness, or mood changes as if their period is about to start, but bleeding never comes. This can sometimes point to a hormone imbalance, especially estrogen dominance, where the body produces estrogen but not enough progesterone.
Common Causes of Irregular or Missed Periods
Once pregnancy has been ruled out, there can be several possible reasons for cycle changes including:
-Hormone imbalance (low progesterone/estrogen dominance
-Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
-Perimenopause or Premature Ovarian Insufficiency
-Thyroid imbalance
-Stress, weight changes, or lifestyle factors
How to Test for Hormone Imbalances
If you’re experiencing irregular or missed periods, there are a couple of ways to better understand what’s happening in your body:
1. Blood Testing
A simple blood test can measure estrogen, progesterone, FSH, LH, thyroid hormones, and other key markers.
2. Urine Testing (DUTCH test)
For a deeper look at what’s happening with both the ovaries and adrenal glands, urinary hormone testing can provide valuable insights. One of the most comprehensive options is the DUTCH Complete test.
This test measures hormone production and metabolism, helping to evaluate estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, and other key pathways. It is especially useful for:
-Women who have somewhat regular cycles but are experiencing changes or symptoms
-Women who are not cycling at all and want to better understand their hormonal status
By going beyond standard bloodwork, the DUTCH Complete can offer a more detailed picture of how hormones are being produced, processed, and balanced in the body.
3. Progesterone Withdrawal Test
Another helpful tool is the progesterone withdrawal test. This involves taking an oral form of progesterone for 5–10 nights (depending on the type of progesterone used). After stopping the medication, many women will experience a withdrawal bleed.
-If bleeding occurs → it means estrogen is present and your uterine lining is building up, but your ovaries are not producing enough progesterone to trigger a period.
-If no bleeding occurs → it may suggest very low estrogen, uterine lining issues, or a blocked outflow tract.
Why the Progesterone Withdrawal Test Matters
The progesterone withdrawal test is simple, safe, and often very helpful in uncovering the root cause of irregular cycles and missed periods. It can provide clarity on whether hormone imbalance — especially low progesterone — is playing a role in your symptoms.
Meet Dr. Erin Rurak, ND
Dr. Erin Rurak ND is certified through The Menopause Society and holds her MSCP (Menopause Society Certified Practitioner) certificate. With advanced training in women’s health and hormone balance, she helps women navigate cycle changes, perimenopause, and menopause with evidence-based, compassionate care.
Take The Next Steps
If you’ve been struggling with irregular periods, missed cycles, or symptoms of hormone imbalance, you don’t have to navigate it alone. There are straightforward ways to get answers and begin treatment.
👉 To learn more about your options or to schedule a visit with Dr. Rurak, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help you restore balance and feel your best.