Cervix: The lower, narrow end of the uterus at the top of the vagina.
Chemotherapy: Treatment of cancer with drugs.
Diabetes Mellitus: A condition in which the levels of sugar in the blood are too high.
Endometrial Hyperplasia: A condition in which the lining of the uterus grows too thick.
Endometrium: The lining of the uterus.
Estrogen: A female hormone produced in the ovaries.
Fallopian Tubes: Tubes through which an egg travels from the ovary to the uterus.
High Blood Pressure: Blood pressure above the normal level. Also called hypertension.
Hormone: Substance made in the body that controls the function of cells or organs.
Hormone Therapy: Treatment in which estrogen and often progestin are taken to help relieve symptoms that may happen around the time of menopause.
Hysterectomy: Surgery to remove the uterus.
Lymph Nodes: Small groups of special tissue that carry lymph, a liquid that bathes body cells. Lymph nodes are connected to each other by lymph vessels. Together, these make up the lymphatic system.
Menopause: The time when a woman’s menstrual periods stop permanently. Menopause is confirmed after 1 year of no periods.
Menstrual Cycle: The monthly process of changes that occur to prepare a woman’s body for possible pregnancy. A menstrual cycle is defined as the first day of menstrual bleeding of one cycle to the first day of menstrual bleeding of the next cycle.
Menstrual Periods: The monthly shedding of blood and tissue from the uterus.
Obstetrician–Gynecologist (Ob-Gyn): A doctor with special training and education in women’s health.
Ovaries: Organs in women that contain the eggs necessary to get pregnant and make important hormones, such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
Ovulation: The time when an ovary releases an egg.
Perimenopause: The time period leading up to menopause.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A condition that leads to a hormone imbalance that affects a woman’s monthly menstrual periods, ovulation, ability to get pregnant, and metabolism.
Polyps: Abnormal tissue growths that can develop on the inside of an organ.
Progesterone: A female hormone that is made in the ovaries and prepares the lining of the uterus for pregnancy.
Progestin: A synthetic form of progesterone that is similar to the hormone made naturally by the body.
Radiation Therapy: Treatment with radiation.
Stage: Stage can refer to the size of a tumor and the extent (if any) to which the disease has spread.
Tamoxifen: An estrogen-blocking medication sometimes used to treat breast cancer.
Transducer: A device that sends out sound waves and translates the echoes into electrical signals.
Ultrasound Exam: A test in which sound waves are used to examine inner parts of the body. During pregnancy, ultrasound can be used to check the fetus.
Vagina: A tube-like structure surrounded by muscles. The vagina leads from the uterus to the outside of the body.
You’re in perimenopause and haven’t had a period in months. Suddenly, you experience menstrual bleeding. What gives?A popular television character recently called this having a “flash period.” Whatever choice of words you use, know that irregular bleeding during perimenopause is common and often normal.
Spotting
You may find that you have small amounts of blood on your underwear in between your periods. Typically spotting is nothing to worry about, and is a symptom of your changing hormones. If you’re spotting regularly, talk to your Southdale OBGYN provider to see if there are any options for relief.
Missed Periods
Once you’ve missed 12 consecutive periods, you’ve reached menopause. Before that time, you may experience longer cycles or missed periods. This means two things: 1) that you may still be able to get pregnant during this time, so don’t rely on period tracking methods to determine fertility, and 2) tracking your period may become difficult if downright impossible.
Enter the “flash period.” This is when you’ve missed several months of periods, and suddenly your menstrual cycle makes an appearance. This may take you completely by surprise and be unwelcome if you’re completely unprepared. Our advice: until your healthcare provider has confirmed you’re in menopause, plan for the unexpected menstrual cycle and consider stocking up on your preferred menstrual products. Panty-liners may be useful for times when you find yourself spotting, or on days when you’re wearing an outfit that makes an unexpected menstrual cycle especially risky.
Unusually Heavy Bleeding
When your progesterone levels are low in relation to your estrogen levels, you may experience the opposite end of the spectrum — unusually heavy menstrual cycles. Having a heavy period can be disruptive to your work, your life and especially your sleep. If you’re experiencing heavy bleeding that is becoming a disruption, consult with your healthcare provider about treatment. The use of hormones during perimenopause may help with symptoms, but they’re not right for everyone.
When Should I Worry About Abnormal Bleeding?
A flash period can be annoying, but menstrual irregularity is a normal and common occurrence during perimenopause. However, it’s important to remember that when you feel like something is wrong, trust your intuition and see your healthcare provider. You can still develop endometrial cancer during perimenopause, so knowing your body and checking in with your Southdale OBGYN provider when you have questions or concerns is always the right move.