New Year, New Symptoms? When Changes in Your Cycle, Bleeding or Pain Should Be Checked
The start of a new year is often a moment to pause and take stock of our health. In my Auckland clinic, January is a time when many women finally book an appointment for symptoms they’ve been managing quietly — sometimes for months, sometimes for years.
If you’ve noticed changes in your cycle, new or worsening pelvic pain, or bleeding that doesn’t feel quite right, you’re not alone. These symptoms are common, but that doesn’t mean they should be ignored, especially when they start to affect your quality of life.
This post is intended to help you understand when gynaecological symptoms are worth checking, and to reassure you that seeking advice is a positive and sensible step.
Why symptoms often become more noticeable at the start of the year
There are a few reasons why gynaecological symptoms often come into focus around this time:
- Disrupted routines over the holidays can affect hormonal balance
- Stress, illness, travel, or weight changes can influence menstrual cycles
- Life slows down just enough to notice symptoms that have been pushed aside
- The new year often feels like a natural time to finally “deal with things”
While some short-term changes can settle on their own, symptoms that persist or worsen are worth assessing — regardless of the time of year.
Changes in your menstrual cycle
Menstrual cycles naturally change over time, and some variation is completely normal. However, certain changes suggest that something else may be going on.
It’s worth seeking advice if you notice:
- Periods becoming heavier or more difficult to manage
- Bleeding lasting longer than it used to
- Cycles becoming more irregular or shorter
- Bleeding between periods
- New or worsening period pain
These symptoms can be associated with conditions such as fibroids, adenomyosis, endometrial polyps, or hormonal changes. In many cases, once the cause is identified, there are effective ways to manage or treat the problem.
If heavy or irregular bleeding is a concern, you may find it helpful to read more about abnormal uterine bleeding.
Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Abnormal bleeding is one of the most common reasons women attend my clinic — and one of the most frequently minimised.
Bleeding that should be checked includes:
- Bleeding between periods
- Bleeding after sex
- Periods that are progressively getting heavier
- Ongoing spotting or unpredictable bleeding
- Any bleeding after menopause
Even when the underlying cause is benign, abnormal bleeding can be exhausting, disruptive, and anxiety-provoking. Early assessment allows for reassurance where appropriate, and timely treatment when needed.
Pelvic pain: you don’t have to live with it
Pelvic pain is often normalised as “just bad periods” or something to push through. In reality, pain that interferes with work, exercise, relationships, or daily life deserves proper attention.
Pelvic pain may present as:
- Severe or worsening period pain
- Pain during or after sex
- Ongoing lower abdominal or pelvic discomfort
- Pain associated with bowel or bladder symptoms
If pelvic pain is affecting you, you can read more about causes and assessment on my pelvic pain page. Conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, or pelvic floor dysfunction may be contributing, and care should focus on helping you feel better — not just finding a diagnosis.
Fibroids: common, but not always insignificant
Fibroids are very common, particularly in women in their 30s and 40s. Many cause no symptoms at all, but others can have a significant impact on wellbeing.
Symptoms associated with fibroids can include:
- Heavy or prolonged periods
- Pelvic pressure or discomfort
- Bloating or urinary frequency
- Fatigue related to iron deficiency
Management is individualised. Some fibroids need no treatment, while others benefit from medical management or minimally invasive surgical options. More detail is available on my fibroids and polyps page.
Cervical screening abnormalities
January is also a common time for women to follow up cervical screening results that were delayed during a busy year.
If you’ve been told you have:
- HPV detected on screening
- Abnormal cervical cells
- A recommendation for colposcopy
it’s completely understandable to feel anxious. Most cervical changes develop slowly and are very treatable, particularly when monitored appropriately. You can read more about cervical abnormalities on my cervical changes page, or about the procedure itself on the colposcopy service page.
When it’s time to book an appointment
A common phrase I hear in clinic is:
“I thought it would settle, but it hasn’t.”
While that approach is understandable, symptoms that persist, worsen, or cause concern are worth checking. Early assessment often means simpler investigations, more options, and faster peace of mind.
You may benefit from specialist review if you’re experiencing:
- Pelvic pain
- Heavy or abnormal bleeding
- Fibroids or suspected fibroids
- Abnormal cervical screening results
- Ongoing gynaecological symptoms without clear answers
What to expect at my clinic
I see every patient myself and take the time to understand the full picture — not just a single symptom.
An appointment usually involves:
- A careful discussion of your concerns and history
- Review of previous tests or imaging
- Examination only when appropriate
- Clear explanations and a plan tailored to you
My aim is that you leave feeling heard, informed, and supported — whether that means reassurance, investigation, or treatment.
A gentle way to start the year
You don’t need a dramatic health reset to start the year well. Sometimes the most helpful step is simply getting clarity about symptoms you’ve been carrying quietly.
If something doesn’t feel right, or you’ve been living with symptoms you’ve learnt to tolerate, you’re welcome to seek advice. Looking after your gynaecological health is important — and you don’t have to navigate it alone.