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IRREGULAR BLEEDING In general, irregular periods are very common during premenopause. The most common early menstrual irregularity noticed is a shortening of cycle length. Women with prior 28 day cycles will commonly describe 24 to 26 day cycles during premenopause. Eventually, the cycle length widens and skipping menses typically occurs. These changes in cycle may lead to heavier flow during premenopause, followed by a lighter flow and occasional spotting in the later stages. But remember that virtually any cycle lengths and flow are considered 'normal' during this transition. A common reason for the late periods and prolonged bleeding is due to 'anovulation' (not releasing an egg). When this occurs, there is no signal to the body to cause a period (if there is no pregnancy). When this continues for long enough, the body starts to shed the uterine lining in a 'piece-meal' fashion, which leads to the prolonged bleeding. This can occur for long periods of time, or can correct itself by the next cycle. The unpredictable aspect of premenopausal bleeding can be most frustrating. Persistent irregular bleeding can be a tip to obtain further evaluation with your health care practitioner. Bleeding longer than 7 days each period, bleeding more often than every 21 days and skipping more than three cycles should be evaluated. QUICK TIPS
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