Identifying your irregular period during menopause: 10 signs you may need a doctor's attention

Irregular period? What’s a regular period? Well, the professionals define it as:

• Occurring every 25 to 31 days
• Bleeding lasting about five days
• Between two and eight tablespoons is normal blood loss

However, between the ages of 45 and 55, women begin to enter the transition of menopause, essentially the end of the reproductive cycle. During this time the body will experience a shift in hormones, and one of the most common results is an irregular period. In fact, only 10% of women leave menopause without noticing irregular menstruation. There are some activities other than menopause that may affect your period.

- Over exercising
- Breast feeding
- Poor nutrition
- Chemotherapy
- Recent childbirth
- miscarriage

Though every woman, and every woman’s period, is different, it is natural to experience an abnormal period once or twice per year. However, there are some irregularities that could indicate a more serious health problem like polycystic ovarian syndrome or hypothyroidism. Below are some warning signs

Extended bleeding

Bleeding lasting more than several days more than normal
• Try keeping a diary detailing each cycle

Heavy bleeding

Passing clots or soaking through sanitary napkins hourly
• Count the number of pads or tampons you use

Spotting between periods or after sex

• Communicate with your partner so they do not worry about their own health

Severe cramping between cycles

• Don’t medicate at first so you can describe the pain to your doctor

Periods getting closer together

• Count the days between cycles

Nipple discharge

Color is not often a helpful indicator
• However, very common if you are breastfeeding

Vaginal discharge with odor

Especially if accompanied by a fever
• Avoid douching: the vagina is capable of regulating its own PH

Excessive hair growth

Aside from on the head
• Tweezing and waxing can help

Deepened voice

• If a work presentation is coming up, blame your deep voice on a cold

Sudden weight gain

Unintentional and without explanation
• Monitor what you eat to see if it is a diet issue

Recommendations about Irregular Periods

Oftentimes irregular periods are the result of a life out of balance. Before buying expensive and risky prescriptions, try eating more fruits and vegetables and less processed food. Practice yoga and drink more water. Herbal supplements and other alternative medications have been proven effective in some cases. However, if you are having chronic irregular periods, you should inform your doctor. For more information on irregular periods in menopause, follow this link.