Is it fibroids or peri-menopause?
Dear Dr Mitchell,
I am in my forties and have had fibroids for the last 5 years. Recently, my period has been irregular, about 21 days instead of 24 days after the last period and more recently 35 days after the last period. In addition, I am more bloated. Is this normal with fibroids and does it signal fibroid growth? Is this a sign of peri-menopause?
Dear Confused,
The normal menstrual period ranges anywhere from 21 to 35 days with an average of 28 days. In a lot of patients, the menstrual period comes exactly every 28 days, but it is quite normal for it to vary within the range given above.
However, prolonged intervals between the menstrual periods or periods occurring more frequently than every 21 days may be a feature of the peri-menopausal period. This is usually due to declining function of the ovaries.
The feeling of bloating may in fact be due to an increase in the size of the fibroids. An ovarian tumour may also give the feeling of bloating and may also cause irregularity in the menstrual cycle.
Irregular menstrual cycles may occur long before other features of the climacteric (this is defined as the period of decline in ovarian function around the time of the menopause).
Other symptoms to look for are hot flashes, mood swings, irritability and insomnia. A hormone profile, which is just a single blood test, will definitely help in determining if you are in fact at this stage of your life cycle.
Consult your gynaecologist who will assess your fibroids and advise you further.
Best wishes.
Dr Sharmaine Mitchell is an obstetrician and gynaecologist. E-mail your health queries to Dr Mitchell at mclymonti@jamaicaobserver.com or write to Dear Dr Mitchell, c/o all woman, Jamaica Observer, 40-42 1/2 Beechwood Ave, Kgn 5
