subject: Periods & Menopause - What Can We Expect? [print this page] Periods & Menopause - What Can We Expect?
While the average age of menopause is fifty-one years old, varying menstrual patterns can start in a woman's forties and for some, may even begin in their mid or late thirties. So what about http://thecompletemenopause.com/periods-and-menopause">periods and menopause?
Menopause and Premenstrual Syndrome
There can be some confusion around premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause.
This confusion can occur because some of the symptoms of PMS are similar to those experienced by women approaching menopause. Emotional outbursts, fatigue, headaches and a variety of shared symptoms could mean that you mistake the symptoms of menopause for symptoms of PMS. If in doubt, it's best to speak to your general practitioner so that you can be aware of what is happening to your body, which will allow you to make lifestyle adjustments and obtain treatment where necessary.
Periods Stopping Gradually
If you follow the majority of women, your periods will gradually stop as you approach menopause. The duration of time lasting from one period to another will typically lengthen although for some, it can actually be shorter. Bleeding may become lighter until periods stop completely.
Keeping Track of Irregular Periods
While some women may experience a sudden halt to periods or a consistent increase or decrease in cycle length until periods stop, other women will have very erratic periods prior to them stopping. It is this third pattern that is the most commonly experienced menstrual pattern prior to menopause.
While you will need to handle these changes as they occur, try torememberthat this is all a natural part of your body preparing itself for menopause. Although it can be extremely frustrating when you`re not sure on which date your bleed will start.Although there are women who suffer from menstrual cramps and other menstrual problems, whoalmost relish the day when their periods will end! Try to appreciate menopause for the positive change that it is, which will then allow you to respect and understand your changing menstruation patterns as a necessary part of menopause and ageing.
