Is this it?

[tooyoungat40]

Turned 40 last year. Since last September periods have changed. Normal cycle is between 23 and 26 days. I had one cycle in September that was 17 days. In January I bled for three days, stopped for a week and then bled for another four days. And now, a week later, I have started bleeding again. Is this the menopause?

Anyone? If it is the start of the menopause, do I need to do anything? I thought I had years left.

You need to see your GP. Blood tests are needed for women under 40. Have a read of the Daisy Network website- premature /early menopause.

Thanks @PollyPerky, I will take a look at that site. I'm just 40 so would this still count as early menopause? I'm not fussed if it is because I'm done child-bearing and would quite happily stop with periods given the choice. I guess there might be all sorts of medical things I'm in ignorance about so will go off and do some reading. Tah.

Premature is under 40, early is under 45 (though some drs are now raising that to 47 for women in the western world.)

There are potentially serious issues with early / prem menopause, such as higher risk of heart disease and osteoporosis due to loss of estrogen.

Have a read!