Irregular Periods during Menopause

One of the main first signs of Menopause is usually irregular periods. These can become very heavy or extremely light, and the frequency can be affected too. They may happen every few weeks or you may go months without one, until they stop altogether.  Before your periods stop this time is called the Perimenopause (the first stage and takes anything up to 10 years for some women), and after 12 months of no period at all this is called Menopause and the stage after that is post Menopause.

When you have a period, the Oestrogen and Progesterone increase and decrease in a regular pattern. When Perimenopause begins your hormone levels are irregular and out of sync.  This means you could experience irregular bleeding and spotting, and your period could be longer or heavier and the number of days between each one is different. You could also miss periods altogether but always consult your GP if this heavy bleeding occurs every few weeks or lasts longer than normal.

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Spotting

This is often light and between periods and is down to the changing hormones in your body building up the uterine lining or endometrium. This can occur before your period and as it finishes, and mid cycle can be common too.

Keeping a track of your cycle is key and tracking your periods can also help your GP diagnose what is going on quicker if they have the information in front of them.  These can also help with many other Menopause symptoms you may be suffering with but have not connected them to the Menopause.

Abnormal Heavy Bleeding.

When your Oestrogen levels are high in comparison to your Progesterone levels, the uterine lining thickens, and this results in heavier bleeding as the lining sheds. Missing periods can also lead to heavier bleeding too. Heavy bleeding for a prolonged time can lead to Anemia, so always consult your GP if it is affecting your daily life and you are having trouble with exercise or day to day life because of it. Vitamin C and Iron have been said to help with heavy bleeding but always consult your GP.

Brown or Dark Blood.

The colour will often change from bright red to dark brown towards the end of your period, dark brown blood is a sign of old blood exiting the body. During Perimenopause you may see brown spotting throughout the month and notice the texture of blood may change and become more watery or thicker. If there is any odour this could be a sign of an infection, so always consult your GP.

Shorter Periods.

With lowering Oestrogen levels, the lining of the uterine becomes thinner, hence bleeding may become lighter and shorter. This is often the case as you start Perimenopause.

Longer Periods.

Towards the end of Perimenopause, your cycle may become longer and farther apart, normally 38 days or more are classed as longer cycles. These are often related to Anovulatory Cycles, which are cycles where you do not ovulate.

Missed Periods.

With fluctuating hormones, you will no doubt miss periods altogether, sometimes not remembering when you last had a period at all. Once you reach a year with no period you have then reached Menopause. If you do still have periods now and again (this means you are still ovulating) remember you could still get pregnant!

Managing Periods during the Perimenopause.

If you are suffering with cramps and pain and general discomfort, there are a few things you can try to help;

• Over the counter pain relief, or specifically designed period symptom tablets.
• Exercising to relieve the cramps/pain and bloating.
• Using a wheat bag or hot water bottle to the back or stomach to help with pain/discomfort.
• Try meditation or Yoga to help with relaxing and stress. Audible have some great podcasts for yoga and meditation!

Always discuss any worries or symptoms that are a concern or not normal for you with your GP, these changes can be difficult and trying at times, but this is a new stage of your life and a time that offers new purpose and meaning.

*DISCLAIMER*This page does not provide medical advice; it is intended for informational purposes only and is based upon my opinion and experiences. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on The Executive Menopause Coach website. Always seek professional medical advice.