a member raised a question about bleeding for over a month solid. Of peri- menopausal age, she was under- standably worried. Most of us think of menopause as a time of skipping or diminishing periods until they cease altogether. Because this question comes up frequently and because it was the case in my perimenopausal transition, I’m reprinting my answer to her for all concerned goddesses.
“Actually, it CAN be normal. Heavy and/or prolonged bleeding during perimenopause can be a normal variant. I had my period every other week (and heavy flows) for a little over a year. Because prolonged bleeding (called dysfunctional uterine bleeding) can be a symptom of more serious conditions, it is important to be checked out by a physician. A pelvic ultrasound and/or endometrial biopsy can rule out pathology. Even if no serious condition is found, you must be monitored for anemia. Regular red blood cell and hemoglobin counts are recommended. I simply increased my intake of red meat and took iron supplements and was never anemic.
Even in the absence of disease, if bleeding persists, your MD may recommend a “simple” D & C (dilation and curettage) or even hysterectomy. I’d get a second opinion or even a third. Remember that NO surgical procedure is simple – each has risks, including that of general anesthesia. A good rule of thumb is to always try the least interventional remedy first.
It took me three tries to find an enlightened gynecologist who felt that heavy bleeding was a normal variant. After ultrasounds and an endometrial biopsy (performed in her office) returned as “normal with menopausal thickening of uterine lining), together we monitored me for anemia and eventually I began skipping periods as I continued on my menopause journey.
Hope this helps – let me know if you have further questions. For more info – check out our blogsite at www.menopausegoddessblog.org. Good luck. Lynette Sheppard RN.”
On a further note: I cannot tell you how many of my nurse-friends had D & C’s or hysterectomies after three weeks of bleeding. When they went to their OB-GYN’s, understandably a little freaked out, those were usually the only recommendations. While a surgical procedure may end up being the right choice for you, it is not necessarily the only or best one. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. You MUST be in charge of your own health care education and decisions. Still have questions? Click on the “Contact Us” button at the top right of the page or visit me at www.wellsphere.com in the Menopause Community.
“The Big M”, the long awaited chronicle of the real-life adventures, musings, wit, and wisdom of the Venus group of Menopause Goddesses is available now. Check out our girlfriend’s special: buy one at regular price and get the second for HALF PRICE. Click here to buy or for free download of Chapter One The Big M
This content was originally published here.
