Perimenopause

Perimenopause Can Cause All Sorts of Changes to Your Period!

Being a woman can be such a rollercoaster – especially when it comes to understanding our periods. From the time we become sexually active, we associate a late or missing period with pregnancy. Sometimes missing a period is joyous news that brings hope of an expanding family. In other situations missing or being late with a period can bring anxiousness and concern.

But as a woman enters their 40s and 50s, late or missing periods can also be a sign that her reproductive years are coming to a close. Perimenopause, the period leading up to menopause, can bring about a variety of changes in a woman’s menstrual cycle. These changes can mimic some symptoms of early pregnancy, making it challenging to determine the cause without proper medical guidance. These changes can be confusing and sometimes concerning, especially when it comes to distinguishing between signs of perimenopause and potential pregnancy.

If you are in your 40s or 50s Dr. Haddad emphasizes the importance of regular check-ups and open communication with your OBGYN to help you understand this “change of life”. Dr. Chadi Haddad, MD, is a board-certified OBGYN serving the Dearborn, MI area, who understands the importance of providing clear, accurate information to help women navigate this transition.

In this article he offers his Dearborn area patients guidance on determining whether a missed period may be due to pregnancy or the result of perimenopause.

Missed Periods During Perimenopause

One of the most common signs of perimenopause (“pre-menopause”) is irregular menstrual cycles, including missed periods. As the body transitions towards menopause, hormone levels fluctuate, which can lead to unpredictable menstruation. Dr. Haddad explains that during perimenopause, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen, which can result in longer intervals between periods or occasionally skipped periods altogether.

However, it’s crucial to note that missed periods can also be a sign of pregnancy. For women who are sexually active and experience a missed period, Dr. Haddad recommends taking a pregnancy test to rule out this possibility before assuming it’s related to perimenopause.

Spotting Between Periods During Perimenopause

Spotting or light bleeding between periods is another common occurrence during perimenopause. This symptom is also often caused by hormonal fluctuations, particularly changes in estrogen and progesterone levels. Dr. Haddad notes that while spotting can be a normal part of the perimenopausal transition, it’s always essential to monitor any unusual bleeding patterns.

In some cases, spotting between periods can also be an early sign of pregnancy, particularly implantation bleeding. Women who experience persistent or heavy spotting should consult with Dr. Haddad or their OBGYN to determine the underlying cause and rule out any potential complications.

Shorter Cycles During Perimenopause

As women enter perimenopause, they may notice their menstrual cycles becoming shorter. This change is often due to accelerated follicular development and earlier ovulation. Dr. Haddad explains that during this phase, the time between periods may decrease from the typical 28 days to 21-23 days.

While shorter cycles are generally associated with perimenopause, it’s important to remember that every woman’s experience is unique. Some women may experience longer cycles or a combination of shorter and longer cycles during the transitional period of perimenopause.

Missed Periods During Perimenopause

As perimenopause progresses toward menopause, women may experience more and more frequently missed periods. Dr. Haddad emphasizes that a period is considered missed when it’s been 60 days or more since the last menstrual cycle. These missed periods are often due to anovulatory cycles, where ovulation does not occur at all.

For women who are experiencing missed periods, Dr. Haddad recommends keeping a menstrual calendar to track cycle changes. This information can be valuable during consultations and help determine whether the missed periods are likely due to perimenopause or if further investigation is needed.

Heavier Periods During Perimenopause

Some women may experience heavier or longer periods during perimenopause. This increase in menstrual flow is often caused by hormonal imbalances, particularly when estrogen levels are high relative to progesterone. Dr. Haddad notes that while heavier periods can be a normal part of the perimenopausal transition, excessive bleeding should always be evaluated to rule out other potential causes.

Women who experience unusually heavy periods, especially those that interfere with daily activities, should consult with Dr. Haddad in the Dearborn area, or their OBGYN. He can provide a thorough evaluation and discuss potential treatment options to manage heavy menstrual bleeding.

Brown or Dark Blood During Perimenopause

Changes in menstrual blood color are common during perimenopause. Many women notice their menstrual blood becoming darker or brown in color as the move closer to menopause. Dr. Haddad explains that this change is often due to slower blood flow, allowing more time for oxidation before it leaves the body.

While brown or dark blood is generally normal during perimenopause, persistent dark discharge or foul-smelling blood should always be evaluated by an OBGYN. Dr. Haddad encourages women in the Dearborn, MI area to report any significant changes in their menstrual blood to ensure proper monitoring and care.

How to Know if Period Changes are Pregnancy or Menopause

Distinguishing between pregnancy and perimenopausal symptoms can be challenging, as both can cause missed periods and other similar symptoms. Dr. Haddad recommends that sexually active women who experience a missed period take a home pregnancy test as a first step.

If the pregnancy test is negative and period changes persist, other symptoms can help determine if perimenopause is the likely cause. These may include hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and vaginal dryness. Dr. Haddad can perform blood tests to measure hormone levels, which can provide more definitive information about whether a woman is entering perimenopause.

Can You Get Pregnant During Perimenopause?

A common misconception is that women can’t get pregnant during perimenopause. Dr. Haddad stresses that while fertility declines during this transition, pregnancy is still possible until a woman has completely gone through menopause (defined as 12 consecutive months without a period).

For women who wish to avoid pregnancy during perimenopause, Dr. Haddad recommends continuing to use contraception until menopause is confirmed. Conversely, for those trying to conceive during this time, Dr. Haddad can provide guidance on fertility treatments and options that may increase the chances of pregnancy if your cycles have slowed down or become irregular.

Perimenopause Doctor | Dearborn, MI area

Navigating the changes that come with perimenopause can be complex, but women in the Dearborn, MI area don’t have to face this transition alone. Dr. Chadi Haddad, MD, offers compassionate, experienced care to help manage perimenopausal symptoms and address any concerns about menstrual changes or potential pregnancy. With regular check-ups and open communication, women can feel empowered and informed throughout this important life stage. If you live in the greater Dearborn, Mi area, schedule an appointment with Dr. Haddad today and take proactive steps in managing your reproductive health before, during, and after perimenopause.

Dearborn Area Perimenopause Doctor: 313.724.3759