Menopause

One of the most common symptoms on the lead up to the menopause is irregular periods. It is the one real way in which you can tell you are going through the change. However, if you are like some women you may constantly go through life with irregular periods and if that is the case you may not necessarily notice the change. So just what do these irregular periods mean?

Understanding Irregular Periods

Irregular periods generally are different every month. You could bleed heavier one month and then hardly bleed at all the next. It is even possible that you could bleed in between periods. Now when this happens around the ages of 45-55, it is usually the sign of the menopause.

The reason that your periods so change near the menopause is because of the hormone changes which are occurring. You are only born with a certain number of eggs to last you your lifetime, so when you get to a certain age, those eggs run out and your estrogen levels drop. This drop in estrogen affects the body in a number of ways and irregular periods are usually one of the first things to be affected. There is actually a name given to these irregular periods at the beginning of the menopause and that is 'perimenopause'. It basically describes the months leading up to the menopause and you know once you start getting them that you are well on your way to the change.

Knowing When Irregular Periods Might Not be The Menopause

Whilst it is fairly likely that any irregular bleeding once you reach a certain age is down to the menopause, there are other times when it might be linked to another condition. For that reason it is always better to discuss things with a doctor if you do notice certain changes.

One of these changes includes very heavy bleeding. Now it is possible that you may experience heavy bleeding as part of the perimenopause, however, if the bleeding is overly heavy it will need looking into. If for example, you are changing your pad ever hour or two, you will need to visit the doctor.

Again, if your periods go on for longer than six days, you should once again let your doctor know. Also, if the time in-between your periods are too short, for example shorter than 21 days apart, you will need to contact your doctor.

Overall irregular bleeding is pretty normal and it is usually down to the perimenopause. However, if you are unsure always talk to your doctor to get their opinion.

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