Cycles suddenly much shorter, age 38, really worried

[houseoftrouser]

We've just been referred by the NHS to a fertility clinic for IVF, we had a telephone consultation this week and just awaiting an appointment for an ultrasound. I've hd the initial two blood tests (FSH and progesterone?) and the results were good, no AMH test yet though.

My cycles have always been very regular, 28 days. Then suddenly my last cycle was short - 21 days. My husband had been very ill and I'd been stressed about it so I put it down to that (he's completely better now). But my period has now started today, even though it's only day 15 and I'm terrified this is menopause and I've left it too late...

I'm trying not to Google because I probably won't like the results - should I contact my GP or the clinic? Or are two wonky cycles not enough for that? I just can't believe this has happened just as we finally got a referral.

Hi OP, what was your FSH result? That should give you an idea of whether you are close to menopause or not. Don't worry too much though, two wonky cycles isn't enough to draw any conclusions and even if it was perimenopause, this wouldn't stop you doing IVF as your cycle will be medically controlled. Good luck!

I wish I could remember the FSH number, both consultants said it was normal/good but I can't find the letter with the figures.

Thanks very much for that reassurance, I didn't realise IVF was still possible in perimenopause. Now the panic has subsided I'm hoping it's just a stress thing (it's been a long, strange January), fingers crossed!

Hi ! Not an expert but I can attest that stress levels play havoc with your cycle. I had a 6wk cycle once when my anxiety was through the roof (for unrelated causes). Another time it shortened my luteal phase by several days (it was a 2ww and I was not amused).

And remember that women in their fifties or sixties have had children before so pregnancy definitely is possible long past menopause.They probably used donor eggs to be fair but at only 38 I'd be really surprised if you didn't still have a few good eggs in there !

Things to think about :

• have you had any other symptoms ? Mood swings, hot flushes, etc ?
• do mention it to your clinic and your gp as they may be able to either reassure you or do testing if necessary