irregular periods problem

Period Problems

As you enter your 40s, your estrogen and progesterone hormone levels start to fluctuate. The hormonal changes can affect your cycle, leading to irregular or missed periods, worsening PMS and more. Period problems can be a sign of a natural progression of your body, but that does not mean they should not be addressed. If you are 35 and older, and experiencing period problems, it does not necessarily mean you are starting menopause. Period problems – irregular bleeding, missed periods, mood changes during periods – can be a sign of something else too. Whatever it is, these problems can be treated and we can take steps to manage symptoms depending on the nature and cause of the issue.

“For women in their 40s, a change in periods is often the first sign of the start of menopause. But it could also be pointing to something else, that we must look out for”

Dr. Ankita Mittal

Noticed a change in your periods?

By the time you are in your 40s, you already have a good sense of what is your ‘normal’. So any changes from your typical pattern can be a sign that your body is going through something. At this age, irregular periods – periods too often, or missed periods – are most likely caused by perimenopause.

Do you need to see a doctor for irregular periods in your 40s? Yes. The changes in your periods could be a sign of something else too. If you feel like your period changes are affecting your daily life, or there are other symptoms as well, you should see a doctor for a checkup.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

A lot of us women have experienced some kind of pain, discomfort or worse in the days leading up to our periods. Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, refers to a group of symptoms that you may experience up to 14 days before the start of your period. These symptoms typically disappear once your period starts.

Does PMS change with age? Yes. PMS symptoms may get worse as you reach your 40s, and your body is in the transition to menopause. During Perimenopause your hormone levels start to decline ahead of your periods stopping, and can make PMS worse. As hormones start to fluctuate, they can cause mood changes, depression, irritability and more. But there could be other reasons for the hormonal changes. So if you are experiencing worsening PMS, like mood swings that affect your daily life, you should see a doctor.
PMS

Treatment for Period Problems

When addressing period problems, the key is to identify the cause. It may be the start of menopause. Or, there could be other explanations for why you are having abnormal periods, including:
We use a combination of blood tests, pelvic exams, and imaging (like ultrasounds) to evaluate the nature and possible causes for the period issues. Treatment is then advised based on the findings.

Concerned about your periods?

If you have doubts or concerns about your health, the best thing to do is to get it checked out!

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