Weird cycle that keeps getting weirder - Women's Health Message Board

kiki lou · 09-17-2003, 05:56 PM

Hi,

I am 40 and have a lifelong history of irregular cycles, usually ranging from 42-70 days between periods. I have one daughter, but required MONTHS of fertility treatments to achieve that pregnancy and no clear cut diagnosis was ever given for my infertility.

The last few months, my cycles have begun to change yet again. They are becoming more regular, 35-42 days. Bleeding lasts 5 days, and is a "normal" amount. On day 10 of each of the last 3 cycles, however, I will begin spotting or staining for 7-10 days. This will stop, only for the "real deal" period to begin in a week or two.

I've been to the gyn, who examined me and found no problems on exam. She suggested a sono for possible polyps or a fibroid. I'm currently awaiting that appt.

Anyone else have similar situation? Any ideas about what's going on?

Thanks in advance,

Kiki

shadepra · 09-17-2003, 08:44 PM

I have experienced the same thing, and I have fibroids. I never thought that the fibroids could cause this to happen, but I guess it's possible.

Your cycles may be changing because you are reaching the age when perimenopause often begins, and one's monthly cycle can start to change. My periods began to get closer together, with heavier bleeding which lasted longer (really FUN). Now they are getting further apart, with less bleeding, as I am getting closer to actual menopause. And I don't experience as much of the spotting ahead of time.

mlgable · 09-18-2003, 09:14 AM

Sounds to me like perimenopause. Have your doc check your hormone levels after you get all your others testing done. I am surprised your doc didn't check for perimenopause first before ordering all the other tests right away. Good Luck.

girlygirly · 09-18-2003, 03:09 PM

You may want to get your thyroid tested as infertility and irregular menstrual patterns are 2 of the many symptoms. It might not be a bad idea to go to the thyroid board to see if you have any of the other symptoms. Many times people are classified as perimenopausal when in fact they are really hypothyroid. Good Luck to you and Good Health!

kiki lou · 09-18-2003, 05:43 PM

Hi,

I've had recent hormone and thyroid testing--all completely middle range of normal. My doctor said it could also be due to stress, the chronic autoimmune disease I have, the fact that I'm thin, or the meds I have to take.

Thanks for the input.

kiki