Will a doctor do anything about shortened cycles?

[ALittleBitAlexis]

We've been TTC for about 5 months, I'm 36.

I've just got my period on day 23 of my cycle, last month I got it on day 20. Last month, I had a very regular 28-day cycle with no exceptions!

No particular stress at the moment, no other changes other than TTC.

I feel like I should go to the GP but I really don't want to go if they aren't likely to do anything (being fobbed off is so annoying, even if it's reasonable!). Has anyone had something similar happen, and did it achieve anything?

I'm terrified it's due to perimenopause.

Do you know when your mum went through the menopause? It's a relatively good indicator.

I got the odd early or late period when ttc- it really messes with your head, especially late ones. There's a good chance this is normal for you and 5 months isn't very long but it wouldn't hurt to discuss with gp.

Thanks for this, it's reassuring to know It's not too unusual to get strange cycle lengths! I think I'll go to the GP, I just find it so discouraging when they aren't helpful and I haven't been to this GP before so don't know what they're like - will just have to brave it!

I don't know when my mam went through menopause, she was 36 when she had my brother and hadn't gone through it yet by her early 40s (when I started) - don't know beyond that.

Even if it is perimenopause, this stage can last up to 10 years, and you can still get pregnant during it. Shortened cycles are a classic sign, but it doesn't mean you need to panic necessarily. Might also be worth getting your progesterone checked in case your shortened cycles are due to a luteal phase defect. Good luck to you x

Thanks so much @Constance1234 , stupidly I hadn't looked into the facts of perimenopause at all (didn't want to see any depressing information!). After reading your post I've looked into it and feel much calmer. I'm still going to see the gp though, in case it is a progesterone issue.

@ALittleBitAlexis I'm glad you are feeling calmer about things :) Unless there is a specific issue, 36 is still a relatively good age in terms of fertility. I had my son aged 38 with no problems. I'm sending you all good wishes that you get your BFP soon x