How do you know if periods have changed when you have the coil.......

[scottswede]

I had the mirena coil put in 3 years ago for really heavy periods. I have a little blood now once a month.
I have noticed things are changing with my body and think it may be menopausal. I'm 48.
Really itchy skin, I could scream.
My body odor is really strong, underarm and vaginal. I used to be able to go without deodorant, now I HAVE to shower twice a day
Every joint hurts, I feel like an old woman some days.
Forgetful, foggy, emotional.
I have no idea if my periods are affected with the coil. So how do you know if it's menopausal. Blood test maybe????

As you say you can't tell by your cycles.
Blood tests aren't great- as you'll see if you read through any peri threads here- because your hormones vary so much from day to day in peri.
Without periods then you just have to use all the other signs and symptoms.
The next step is whether you want to do anything about your symptoms either by making lifestyle changes - a lot of us find that a better healthier diet and exercise help-, or taking herbal supplements for meno, or maybe HRT if you are really suffering.

I think I'm partially relieved it's just the menopause.
Seriously I have been thinking for months I had some serious mental disorder or some crippling joint disease some days.
Fell asleep quite quickly last night only to wake with skin so itchy I got up and put the light on as I was convinced the bed was alive with flees.
I will keep tabs on symptoms and start researching various options it things get too unbearable.
I was looking for the kick up the pants to change my eating and exercise patterns so I think this is as good a time as any.

I started having problems when I turned 49 my cycle c anged I was bleeding irregular and after sex I knew somethin was going doctor sed best if I have the mirena fitted as I had polyps and thick lining of the womb it would stabilise things and it did after 12 months I have next to no periods now but dont know if certain symptoms I have are menopausal or what depression no energy no interest some of the time not all or just my age confused .