Irregular Periods: Causes, Symptoms & What to Do

Question
HI,
My name is Kim, I'm 34 and have 2 children (7 and 5).
I have had 3 periods in a span of 5 1/2 weeks. All heavy and all lasting 5-7 days. I am also having cramping for most of the periods and mid-cycle (ovulation) times.
Today (12-27-04) I just phoned my GP and told him of my irregular periods. He replied later in the day with a prescription for Provera for 10 days.
Menstrual periods on 11-16-04; 12-14-04; and 12-24-04)
I looked on the net...is this normal? To get homone treatment before any physical exam?
Should I go to an OB for this?
Please help! THANKS!

Answer
You had a normal 29 day cycle from November 16 to December 14, but you started having mid-cycle bleeding on December 25 (on cycle day 11). If you are not bleeding right now, you do not have to take Provera for 10 days. If you continue bleeding longer than 14 days at a stretch, then take Provera 10mg twice a day for 5 days, and the bleeding will first get heavier and then stop. Then you should be regulated with birth control pills. HOwever, right now, I would just keep a record of your bleeding (just the first day of each time your start bleeding). A cycle is considered normal if it is 24-35 days from the first day of your period until the first day of your next period. A period is considered normal if it is less than 14 days at a time. You are also correct that you should be examined by a gynecologist prior to any form of treatment, although the treatment is based on your history, not on the physical exam. Don't worry. I definitely would consult a gynecologist for this. First keep a record of your bleeding ror around 4 months. Good Luck.