Heavy period. Is this normal? Perimenopause?

[mumma24]

In March and April I didn’t have a period.
Until 29th April I bled normally for 6 days then nothing for 8 days and I’ve been bleeding again for the past 7 days. So I’m on day 7 now and instead of the bleed easing off it’s a heavy bleed. I would say twice as much as normal having to change a pad every 1 to 2 hours. Is this normal. I’ve made an appoint to see nurse on Weds. I’m 49 so I’m assuming it’s peri menopause symptoms.

[thekingfisher]

any unusual bleeding should be investigated - has it been this heavy for all 7 days?

[mumma24]

Only on Friday and today

[JinglingHellsBells]

You have missed 2 periods so what is coming away now is 2 months of lining. I personally think changing pads every 2 hours is pretty normal.
You might though want to see your GP to ask about drugs such as Tranexamic acid to stem the flow.
You can also find lots of advice on the NHS site about coping with heavy bleeds. Taking 200mgs of Ibuprofen 3 x a day is one suggestion.

[Downunderduchess]

That's how it started for me, unusually heavy & more frequent periods over maybe 18 months (very draining) and then less & less frequent, down to only four periods a year and have now not had a period since December 2017, so technically now in menopause!

[mumma24]

day 8 and 9 even heavier. I’ve had to take time off work. I would say excessive bleeding as clothing and bedding soaked too. Off to see nurse this afternoon

[EBearhug]

IIt's unusual for you, so you should get it checked, even though the likelihood is that it's just age - that doesn't mean symptoms can't be treated, and other possible causes should be checked for just in case.

Hope it goes well with the nurse.

[mumma24]

Thank you. Been given meds to ease blood flow. Booked in for ultrasound and blood tests

[Lunde]

I had very similar just prior to the menopause.

Very heavy bleeding and flooding on some of the days - sometimes I was using "night towels" during the day and having to change them 4 to 5 times per hour. Several embarrassing situations at work where I soaked clothing and chairs.

I had an appointment with the gyn and they did bloods and ultrasound but found nothing wrong. Told me to come back in 6 months if it was still a problem but actually I had my final period 3 months later.

[EBearhug]

having to change them 4 to 5 times per hour.

And they thought it was reasonable for a woman to have to restrict her life that much?

[mumma24]

That’s reassuring to hear @lunde was your final bleed as heavy?