Irregular Periods In Menopause

Irregular periods are one of the most common signs of menopause and this results from fluctuating hormone levels in your body. When you approach menopause, the levels of oestrogen start to decrease and progesterone levels increase; usually, the two hormones work together to produce normal periods, but as levels change, this process is interrupted and periods become irregular.

Different people experience different symptoms when they approach and reach menopause and one woman may have completely different changes to their periods than another. Irregular periods may relate to heavy or light bleeding, long or short periods or frequent or infrequent periods. It is normal to go for months without a period and also to experience very light bleeding, known as spotting, between periods.


What can be done for irregular periods?

Irregular periods can be inconvenient, but they don't normally cause any serious problems; however, if you suffer with severe cramps and pains, you bleed excessively or for prolonged periods of time, you should see your doctor.

It's important to look after yourself during menopause and to avoid doing things that may heighten symptoms; try to eat well, drink plenty of water, get lots of rest and avoid stress. It's also best to avoid smoking and drinking a lot of alcohol at this time.

If your periods are affecting your day to day life or you have symptoms that you're worried about, such as long or very heavy periods, see your GP. In some cases, HRT (hormone replacement therapy) may be beneficial to help ease symptoms and regulate periods.


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