What can cause a three week period? my periods are usually normal i did not have one the last two months but now this one has lasted 23 days

A : A three week period can be caused by "dysfunctional uterine bleeding", which is when a patient's hormones are out of balance for stress on the body or other reasons, and the patient has a very heavy period, often after skipping a period. This usually goes back to normal. Irregular periods are more common in women with abnormal weight (too high or too low). If there is any question of pregnancy, then a pregnancy test should be checked of course. Older women who are perimenopausal can have heavy, long periods. Patients with fibroids can have heavy bleeding. If a patient has persistent bleeding, then they should consult their physician for an evaluation.