My periods are more frequent, could this be peri-menopause or something else?

[Demi]

My periods have always been regular (30/32 day cycle) and uneventful. I've never been on the pill or had a gynae problem.

For the last 5 months I've had a 24-28 day cycle and my periods have been very light but very painful.

Any ideas? Could this be peri-menopause?

I'm 38.

I will see my GP, but in the meantime any thought's greatly appreciated.

Thanks. :)

It's not a huge differnce. Cycles do tend to get shorter as you age.

Mine were often 32-35 days in my teens/early 20s.

Then they gradually got shorter to 30 days, 28 days and once as i was almost menopausal, every 17-21 days.

Unless you have an early meno in the family it's unlikely to be it yet.

Thanks cabbageroses! That is helpful. There isn't any family history of early menopause.

I'm not sure about the pain I'm getting though.

I've never suffered (well, not since I was about 16). And also the flow is lighter... I would have thought if there was a problem it would probably get heavier so I think it's a good sign it is lighter.

I'll have a chat with my GP anyhow to put my mind at rest.