Menstrual Shifts Over Decades Explained By GP

As you’ve gotten older, you may have noticed that your periods have changed over time. I know for myself, my once 10 day periods are now down to a very neat (and heavy) three days now that I’m in my late thirties.

It may feel strange but according to Dr Clair Grainger, GP at Superdrug Online Doctor, it’s perfectly normal to experience shifts in your periods over time. After all, our bodies are always changing so why would menstruation be the exception?

Dr Grainger says: “Hormone levels naturally fluctuate at different stages of life, influencing everything from cycle length and flow to symptoms such as cramping, mood changes and PMS.

“While some changes are expected, it’s important to know what’s normal for you. If your periods suddenly become much heavier, significantly more painful, become very irregular after previously being regular, or you’re experiencing bleeding between periods or after sex, it’s worth speaking to a healthcare professional.”

Dr Grainger also shared how our periods change throughout our lives right up to menopause.

This is the time when periods first arrive for a lot of people (though they can come earlier) and the shift can be quite a shock to the system. Dr Grainger says: “When periods first begin, it’s common for them to be unpredictable. During the first few years after your first period, the hormonal communication between the brain and ovaries is still maturing, meaning ovulation doesn’t always occur every month.

“This is why teenagers often experience irregular cycles, periods that are early or late, and bleeding that varies from month to month. Cramping can also feel particularly intense during adolescence, while acne, bloating and mood changes are common as hormone levels fluctuate.”

Some of the most common symptoms experienced during this time include:

• Irregular periods

• Heavy or light bleeding

• Period pain

• Acne

• Mood swings

• Bloating

However, while some pain and cramping is expected around this time, Dr Grainger urges that it should never interfere with everyday life, saying: “Although painful periods are common, they shouldn’t be dismissed if they’re stopping someone from attending school, exercising or enjoying everyday life.”

Speak to your GP if you are experiencing this.

Dr Grainger shares that this is the time when periods tend to settle: “For many people, periods become more regular during their twenties as hormone levels stabilise and ovulation becomes more consistent. Cycles often become easier to predict, although stress, travel, weight changes and exercise can still influence them.

“This is also the decade when many people begin using contraception, which can change the pattern of their periods. The combined contraceptive pill, for example, can help prevent ovulation, regulate cycles, reduce menstrual bleeding and improve period pain.”

However, this isn’t foolproof and you may have to work with your sexual healthcare provider to find the solution that sticks for you.

Common symptoms at this time:

As this is the time when many people settle down and have children, the cycle tends to be regular but can be impacted by pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding can impact menstrual cycles.

Dr Grainger says: “When periods return after having a baby, they may initially be heavier, lighter or more irregular than before.

“Many people also find that this decade brings busier lifestyles, with holidays, weddings and major life events becoming more common. If a period is due to coincide with an important occasion, period delay medication may be an option for those who are medically suitable.”

Common symptoms at this time:

Dr Grainger advises: “During your forties, many people begin the transition towards menopause, known as perimenopause. Oestrogen and progesterone levels become more variable, meaning periods often become less predictable.

“Cycles may become shorter or longer, bleeding can become heavier or lighter, and you may occasionally skip periods altogether. Alongside these changes, many people experience hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disturbances and mood changes.”

Common symptoms at this time:

Dr Grainger adds: “Although changes during perimenopause are common, severe period pain or very heavy or frequent bleeding shouldn’t simply be accepted as part of ageing.

“If symptoms are affecting your quality of life, it’s important to seek medical advice, as there are a range of treatment options available and it’s important to exclude serious underlying causes.”