Early menopause?

[ShatterResistant]

I posted this in family planning, but was very quickly told it wasn't the right place. I guess this board makes more sense, and wonder whether you all might be able to advise me?

I'm 38, and my youngest child is 2.2. In the last few months I've been having really strange periods. They start heavy and then stop, coming back properly a couple of days later, lasting around a week. I don't track them, but felt like they were coming around much quicker than usual. This was confirmed when I had a 24 hour bleed yesterday, only about 10 days from when I last had a proper period. It's very unlike me: every since I started at 13, my periods have been very regular, moderately painful for the first day or so, and quite heavy. Does it sound like early menopause? Maybe it wouldn't even be that early?? I don't want any more children so I wouldn't be devastated, but I suppose I'm just wondering whether you think I should bother the GP with it. Apart from that I feel fine. Thanks for any experiences/insight.

[AuntieStella]

Well, I suppose apart from saying that you need to continue to use a family planning method of your choice until your menopause is complete, there isn't really much to add from that angle (though hormonal methods can contribute to HRT).

My periods certainly went closer and heavier for a while as part of the menopause. There are also other conditions which can cause that, such as fibroids and adenomyosis which are more common in older women.

So yes, I think it would be worth seeing your GP, and perhaps asking for a gynae referral. Then you'll know what's going on, and whether there is anything that can be done to cure a condition, or alleviate symptoms if the conclusion is that it is early menopause.

If it is, then it would be worth researching HRT options.

[ShatterResistant]

That's very interesting, thank you. I'll book an appointment first thing. I'd like to think it's an aberration, but obviously want to be sure.

[shazzarooney999]

I agree with Auntiestella, mines went like that, went to the docs, was told i had a cervical polyp and fibroids and that i needed and operation, diddnt go through with the operation but went on the pill, the pill completely stopped them.