period pains - feel like a teenager :(

[bananaberyl]

My periods have been quite irregular for the last year or so (I'm 46). I've missed several, but also had some quite close together. This month, and last month I've had terrible stomach cramps on the first 2 days of my period. I feel like a teenager again. Proper period pains. Until now I don't remember the last time I experienced this. (probably about 30 years ago).
I've had a lot of mood swings over the last couple of years, and a bit of insomnia but no other typical symptoms.
Is increased period pain something that happens at this age/stage/possibly perimenopausal? Thank you for any helpful info.

I ended up with nearly continual period pain and mood swings etc but without an actual period. Have started HRT because I couldn't cope with it (nor could anyone else who lived with me ). Has helped, although am wondering if I now need a stronger dose as pains etc are coming back.

oh no! I'm dreading it, but also sort of looking forward to it being done if that makes sense.

My stomach has been hurting since about 3pm today, continuously. I never have that.

Mind you, probably would rather this than an unexpected hot flush.
I thought I was properly perimenopausal last year when I skipped a few periods, and was very up and down (moods), but then my moods swings have calmed down and my last few periods have been quite regular.

I have the same question. I've always had some pain with my periods, but not necessarily enough to really stop me doing anything, and didn't feel I struggled too much with mood swings. Today I'm supposed to be getting ready to go out, but instead I'm curled in a ball in bed with a hot water bottle and I can't stop crying. I'm 41 and while my periods are still pretty regular they have been getting a little heavier I think.
I'm starting to feel like the next few years might not be so much fun :(