Prolonged or Light Periods: Causes & When to See a Doctor

Question
I am 33 Years Old Have Had Regular Periods All My Life. About 3 Months Ago I had a period that lasted 5 days but was hardly any bleeding at all very lite. Next Period was normal bleeding. Now this month I have had a period for about 11 days  5 days normal bleeding the rest of the days mostly spotting when I wipe and it hasnt stopped yet. I am very scared it could be cancer I know I need to get to a Dr. But I was Hoping It would stop before I had a exam. Could You Tell Me What This Could Be and Why This Is Happening? Also There Is No chance that I am pregnant have not been active since Nov. Of Last year. Thank You

Answer
Dear Lindsay,

A normal menstrual period lasts from 2-7 days. The normal cycle patterns can range from 21-35 days. When bleeding occurs that is not part of the regular cycle - periods are longer or heavier than normal, occurs between periods, time between periods is longer than normal, or there is an absence of periods - it is termed irregular uterine bleeding. There are several different causes of abnormal bleeding, but the most common is a hormone imbalance. At both ends of the menstrual life of a woman, periods may be irregular. Reasons for abnormal periods can be both normal and abnormal. A hormonal imbalance (not enough or too much of certain hormones) can occur as a result of weight loss or gain, strenuous exercise, stress, illness, or certain medications. The most common result of a hormone imbalance is loss of ovulation. If this occurs over a long period of time, a condition called endometrial hyperplasia can occur. Endometrial hyperplasia is the result of constant estrogen bombardment of the endometrium (the lining of the uterus shed every month with your period). Untreated, endometrial hyperplasia (when the lining of the uterus becomes too thick) can sometimes turn into cancer. However, there is no need to jump to that conclusion right from the start. You really do need to be evaluated by a doctor. This is why having a Pap smear every single year is so very important.

Your periods have only recently become abnormal for you. I would encourage you to make the appointment and not put off getting the evaluation any longer. At the very least, it will ease your stress about the whole thing!

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda