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Long menstrual cycle

05/15/2007

Question:

I was a week late starting my period and when it started was very light. It stopped for a couple of days and then restarted. It has now been nearly three weeks and seems to have got heavier with no sign of it stopping. Heaviest times seem to be in the morning and then tapers off. I called my doctors and they said I am due for my yearly exam and told me to come in May 22. I am 49 years old and wonder if this could be something to do with Menopause. Do I have reason to worry and should I ask the doctor to see me before May 22.

Thanks for all your help

Answer:

Certainly, irregularities of menstrual cycle in women of your age group are often caused by beginnings of the menopause. Much more seldom, there are other reasons, such as ovarian cysts or uterine fibroids. None of these should by themselves concern you enough to want to be seen sooner than your upcoming appointment.

However, a very important fact is that with lengthy and heavy flow, one is under a risk of developing anemia. The body tries to make up the losses, but may not be able to keep up. Shortage of blood components - mostly Iron - leads to insufficient ability to transport oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the tissues. Pallor, fatigue and sometimes shortness of breath and decline in stamina are radical signs of anemia.

If you have or do develop these, then you should make it clear to your doctor and perhaps be seen sooner. Otherwise, waiting another week, as uncomfortable as it may be, should be of no danger.

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Response by:

The Ohio State University Shalva V. Kakabadze, MD
Clinical Assistant Professor
Department of Family Medicine
College of Medicine
The Ohio State University
Shalva V. Kakabadze, MD