QuestionBrief history, I am 42yrs with one 3yr old. Always had very on time periods at approx 28dys. uncomplicated pregnancy with a small bout of perterm labor. Have a few small 2-3mm fibroids and a bicornuate uterus(diagnosed at csec, 37wks) The last year Ive had most periods at 23-35dys and one at 43dys. Dr said prob either preg that didnt take or didnt ovulate. Ive had no other symptoms of probs or perimenopause. Now, I started my period Sept.27th with no abnormalties and then last thursday at 14dys, I started having light brown spotting. I also was very very nauseous with light cramps and major bloating. I spotted up until today, now bleeding light but still somewhat very dark brown red and still nauseous..ugh. Going to Dr tomorrow. Please advise...and what else I should ask the Dr.or have him do. u/s? blood w/u? what?
AnswerDear Addy,
Well, here's the thing - he will do what he's going to do. Most likely he will do a quantitative blood pregnancy test, just to rule out a pregnancy due to your symptomology. Otherwise, the symptoms you describe do sound hormonal in nature. He may check your hormone levels. He may or may not do an ultrasound, just to see if the fibroids have grown in size and are causing some bleeding irregularities, although fibroids tend to cause heavy uterine bleeding.
The fact that your menstrual pattern has started to become irregular and space out can be the first sign of perimenopause. I am the same age and this is also my only symptom thus far - as it is with many women who are just entering the phase. Other symptoms may not come along for many years yet (which, personally, won't hurt my feelings at all!).
Until testing makes the picture a bit clearer, it really is a guessing game at this point. Hopefully, your doctor will help to shed some additional light on your situation for you.
I hope this has helped you and I wish you well.
Brenda
