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Menopause & Irregular Periods

Menopause is diagnosed 12 months after a woman's last period. But for 4 to 10 years before her last menstrual cycle, a woman could have irregular periods.

  1. What is Menopause?

    • Menopause is a time in a woman's life when she no longer ovulates and, therefore, no longer has a period. It typically happens after age 40, and women spend nearly a third of their life in menopause.

    When Menopause is Coming

    • Before menopause, there is perimenopause. This is a time when a woman's estrogen levels and, therefore, her fertility begin to decline leading up to menopause. Less estrogen means fewer eggs are produced by the ovaries and periods are less frequent. This stage typically lasts four years and begins in the late 30s and early 40s.

    Irregular Periods

    • Irregular periods are a symptom of the onset of perimenopause and, therefore, an indication of pending menopause. Other symptoms of perimenopause include decreased sex drive, hot flashes and worsening of premenstrual syndrome.

    Other Causes of Irregularity

    • Irregular periods don't necessarily indicate a women is entering perimenopause. Other causes include other hormonal imbalances, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, stress, a low percentage of body fat and pregnancy.

    How to Know

    • If you suspect you may have entered perimenopause, go to your doctor. He can check your estrogen levels or record your systems to make a diagnosis. And, your doctor can prescribe medications to ease your transition.

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