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ICD-10 Coding for Irregular Periods(N92.6, N92.5)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Irregular Periods. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Irregular MenstruationMenstrual Irregularity

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Irregular Periods

N92.0-N92.6Primary Range

Excessive, frequent, and irregular menstruation

This range covers various types of menstrual irregularities, including excessive, frequent, and irregular menstruation.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
N92.6Irregular menstruation, unspecifiedUse when the irregularity lacks specific details.
  • Cycle variability greater than 9 days
  • Exclusion of pregnancy
N92.5Other specified irregular menstruationUse for defined patterns not covered by other codes.
  • Documentation of prolonged intervals greater than 35 days
  • Bleeding between cycles

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for irregular periods

Essential facts and insights about Irregular Periods

The ICD-10 code for unspecified irregular periods is N92.6, while N92.5 is used for other specified irregular menstruation patterns.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for irregular period

Irregular menstruation, unspecified
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Cycle variability greater than 9 days

documentation Criteria

  • Lack of specific details about the irregularity

Applicable To

  • Unspecified irregular cycles

Excludes

  • Menorrhagia (N92.1)
  • Other specified irregular menstruation (N92.5)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Cycle variability greater than 9 days
  • Exclusion of pregnancy

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of using this code when more specific codes apply.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure to document cycle length and flow characteristics.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome

E28.2
Sequence first if PCOS underlies irregular cycles.

Postcoital bleeding

N93.0
Use alongside N92.5 if irregular bleeding occurs after intercourse.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Other specified irregular menstruation

N92.5
Use N92.5 for defined patterns like intermenstrual bleeding.

Irregular menstruation, unspecified

N92.6
Use N92.6 when the irregularity lacks specific details.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Irregular Periods to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N92.6.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to misdiagnosis or incorrect treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials due to insufficient documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure cycle length is always documented., Use templates to standardize documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate healthcare data reporting.

Mitigation Strategy

Use N92.2 for menometrorrhagia.

Impact

Risk of audits due to missing cycle metrics or flow details.

Mitigation Strategy

Use standardized templates and ensure thorough documentation.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Irregular Periods, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Irregular Periods

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Irregular Periods. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Irregular menstrual cycles

Specialty: Gynecology

Required Elements

  • Cycle length
  • Flow characteristics
  • Associated symptoms
  • Underlying causes

Example Documentation

Menstrual History: LMP: [MM/DD/YYYY], Cycle length: [Range in days], Duration: [Days], Flow: Light/Moderate/Heavy (specify pad/tampon count), Associated symptoms: Dysmenorrhea (Y/N), Midcycle spotting (Y/N), Studies: US findings, Hb 11.2 g/dL (if anemia), Etiology: [PCOS, thyroid disorder, etc.]

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient reports irregular periods.
Good Documentation Example
Menarche age 12. Current cycle: LMP 03/01/2025, duration 8 days, heavy flow (6 tampons/day). Prior cycle: 45 days, light flow. No structural abnormalities on pelvic US. TSH 4.2 mIU/L (ref 0.4-4.0).
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the cycle, flow, and relevant lab findings, which are necessary for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Irregular Periods? Ask your questions below.

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