Could this be menopause

[MarriedtotheColonel]

I'm 42, had a baby 2 years ago and heavy flooding periods since. Also mood swings, was diagnosed with PND, but they seem to be more extremes of normal moods and definitely worse PMT. I was given some drugs for heavy bleeding for a short while, then only had flooding for a couple of days and shortened periods the last two cycles. Now my period is late. I am not pregnant and no possibility of pregnancy. I have had a week of occasional mild cramps, like period pains, but no period. I am very grumpy and tearful today, like PMT. I have also started waking randomly in the night, at 2 or 3am and cannot get back to sleep. Can anyone shed any light on whether this might be menopause?

[doubleristretto]

Hi Married, I just wanted to say that I hope you feel better now. I'm 39 and have always been regular apart from last month which was awfully painful and then only some (late) spotting and this month when I had cramps, dreamt I was in labour in fact, and now am two days late with nothing at all. I'm assuming it is the beginning of the menopause and planning to book to see the GP. Not what I was expecting at all! for you and for me, we deserve it!

[PollyPerky]

If either of you is peri meno then your GP should consider a referral to a gynae who specialises in premature menopause.

Average age in UK is 52 , under 40 is considered premature (premature ovarian failure POF) and under 45 is early.

You both need expert help to prevent diseases in your 50s+- heart disease, osteoporosis and Parkinsons (sorry!)

[doubleristretto]

Hi Polly, thank you for your advice. I'm aware that it's not great to have an early menopause, my family suffer with osteoarthritis and osteoporosis and I'm lactose intolerant which has meant a conscious effort to supplement my calcium (and vitamin D) levels thus far. I've got awful gripes and aches this evening, I'm just hoping it comes to something, unlike last month! Why would you get the pains with no real period to show for it? For you as well!

[PollyPerky]

Don't jump the gun; 2 days late is quite normal. You could go on like this for years :) I have read that regular cycles are not the norm; most women have a monthly variation. I did! I was menopausal at 53 but all my life my cycles could vary between 2- 6 days. Pain etc but no bleed is common - they are called phantom periods !