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Evelyn Resh MPH,CNM(Certified Sexuality Counselor & Nurse-Midwife)answered(8/20/2012)You are in peri-menopause - the 2-10 years that precedes actual menopause, which is determined by 12 consecutive months without a period. If this is your first and only episode of this kind-of bleeding, stay calm and just wait it out for another few days. If this has been happening over several months, go see your Ob/Gyn for evaluation. These long drawn-out cycles are not uncommon for women close to menopause and are related to shifts in your levels of estrogen and progesterone. They are a nuisance for sure, but generally don't indicate a problem.
Shira Miller, M.D.(Menopause and Anti-Aging Physician)answered(10/17/2012)Yes, ongoing bleeding is likely a symptom of perimenopause for an otherwise healthy woman your age. The bleeding for some women can get very heavy, to the point that they lose an excessive amount of iron and blood, and become severely fatigued. Conventionally-trained gynecologist and internists are usually not experts in treating menopause, so I would find an integrative medicine doctor to help you. See my previous post about the pros and cons of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for more details.
Menopause is a permanent hormone deficiency of estrogen and progesterone, so I definitely consider it a problem.
Anonymousanswered(10/26/2012)I would check with your doctor if this continues. My mother experienced this at age 48 and she actually had endometrial cancer. Her earlier diagnosis allowed her to have a swift recovery. Just something to consider.
