Changes in menstral periods
- Text Size: A | A | A
- Email This
- Print This
Symptoms of Menopause: Menstrual changes
One of the major signs of menopause is a change in your monthly menstrual cycle. About 90% of women experience menstrual cycle changes for about 4-8 years before they reach menopause. Your cycle will typically get shorter, with periods occurring more often than every 28 days. Bleeding may last fewer or more days than previously, and your flow may be heavier, lighter, or just spotting. Just before you go through menopause, you may even skip periods. These are all signs that you're not producing as much of the two hormones — estrogen and progesterone — that regulate your menstrual cycle.
What you can do: Be sure to keep extra tampons and pads in a number of places (work, home, car) just in case! Please consult your healthcare provider if you are concerned about the fluctuation in your cycle.