What’s normal? Spotting during perimenopause.
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the few years before periods cease altogether (Menopause) at around 51.. It lasts for 4-10 years, and most people experience at least a few symptoms.
The average age of menopause is 50, so that means most people go through perimenopause when they’re in their 40’s. Of course, it can happen earlier, or later than this.
We’ll talk specifically about spotting during perimenopause, but some of the other common perimenopausal symptoms include:
- Weight gain
- Irregular periods
- Bloating
- Night sweats and insomnia
- Irritability
- Hot flashes
These perimenopausal symptoms are caused by changing hormones. Learn more about that here: Perimenopausal Facts and FAQs.
Want to know what the stages of perimenopause are, and where you’re at in that? Learn more here:
What Causes Spotting During Perimenopause?
The most normal cause of spotting before menopause is changing hormone levels. Although estrogen levels remain relatively stable, progesterone begins to dip during Perimenopause.
Another possible cause of spotting is if you’re on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and your medication isn’t properly regulated. If this is the case, see your doctor.
Finally, abnormalities with your endometrial lining, as well as polyps can cause irregular bleeding.
When to See my Doctor about Perimenopausal Spotting?
It’s normal that your periods will become more and more irregular as your approach menopause. However, it’s worth consulting your doctor if things seem not quite right.
There are some serious conditions that can lead to heavy bleeding, spotting, bleeding after sex, etc. These conditions can include cancer, polyps, endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial atrophy.
In addition, if you’re on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), you may experience spotting if you’re not on the correct dose. Please see your doctor to adjust the medication.
What is Metrorrhagia?
The official definition of Metrorrhagia is irregular uterine bleeding that happens outside of the normal period time. It may, or may not be related to menstruation.
There are various treatment options for Metrorrhagia that depend on the underlying condition causing it. There are also some serious medical conditions that can cause this, including cancer, so it’s important to check with your doctor about this.
You can learn more here: Metrorrhagia FAQs.
Menstrual Cycle Changes: Are they Normal?
Keep Track of your Menstrual Cycle
One thing that can be extremely helpful for your doctor is to have a record of your menstrual cycle. This is vital for them to recognize any irregularities.
When did you begin spotting, and when did it end?
How heavy was it?
When did you begin menstruating, and for how long?
We recommend using a menstrual cycle tracking app for doing this.
Are there Medical Treatment for Pre-Menopausal Spotting?
If you’re experiencing this, you may want to know about the possibility of medical treatments. The answer is that it depends on the underlying cause.
If it’s HRT, then your doctor will adjust the dose.
If it’s fluctuating hormones, your doctor may suggest medication to regulate their levels.
Perhaps it’s related to polyps or the endometrial lining? Your doctor may suggest surgery to remove them.
How Can I Deal with Spotting During Perimenopause?
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Spotting between cycles can be a little bit annoying to deal with. However, there are two options that we recommend: period panties and reusable cloth pads.
Both of them are eco-friendly, affordable and better for our bodies than disposable products.
Learn More about Period Panties
Review of Natratouch Bamboo Period Panties
Menstrual underwear make an excellent choice if you have very light spotting throughout your cycle. Most people find that they’re more comfortable than disposable pantyliners.
The reason why we love them is because many brands of pads contain trace amounts of toxic chemicals in them. However, with period panties, you can have a toxin free period experience. This is particularly important if you’re going to be using them for much of the month.
The other reason why you might consider period panties is because you’ll save money over the medium to long-term if you’re using them all the time. Just buy 4-5 pairs and you’ll be covered for all your spotting needs for years.
Check out some of our picks for the best period panties:
The Best Menstrual Underwear for Spotting
Or, check out our favourites in the chart below:
Learn More about Reusable Cloth Pads
The next option you might want to consider for spotting during perimenopause are reusable cloth pads. They’re pretty similar to disposable sanitary pads, but they’re made from natural materials. The best thing is that they can be used for 5-10 years.
Like disposables, washable menstrual pads come in a range of absorbencies. For spotting, you might want to consider panty liners.
They’re eco-friendly, very comfortable, hypoallergenic, and will save you a lot of money compared to disposables if you use them all the time. They’re also great for vaginal discharge, along with spotting.
For some of our top picks, you’ll want to check out:
Or, have a look at the options in our handy comparison chart:
Need more Details about Period Protection Before Menopause?
For more information, be sure to check out: Beyond Tampons, Perimenopausal Period Options.
Spotting During Perimenopause: Have your Say!
Have you experienced spotting before menopause? How did you deal with it? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts with us.
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