More frequent periods during perimenopause

Perimenopause is the transition before periods stop. Ovarian hormone levels can vary from cycle to cycle, so the uterine lining may build and shed on a different schedule. A cycle may arrive earlier, while another may be delayed or missed. Bleeding can also become lighter, heavier, longer, or more unpredictable. These changes may occur alongside hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disruption, or mood changes. More frequent bleeding is a symptom associated with the menopause transition, but it is not specific to it; pregnancy-related bleeding, fibroids, polyps, thyroid disorders, medication effects, and other conditions can also alter a cycle.

Record the first day of each bleed, how long it lasts, whether flow is light or heavy, and whether you pass clots or have pain. Note medicines, contraception, pregnancy possibility, and symptoms such as dizziness or breathlessness. Arrange a clinician review if the pattern is new, keeps recurring, or interferes with daily life. Assessment may include a pregnancy test, blood tests, or an examination, depending on your age, history, and bleeding pattern. Use period products that let you judge the amount of bleeding, and keep hydrated if bleeding is prolonged.

Seek urgent care for bleeding that rapidly soaks through protection, fainting, severe weakness, severe pelvic pain, or possible pregnancy with pain or bleeding. Contact a clinician soon for bleeding between periods, bleeding after sex, bleeding after twelve months without a period, or a pattern that is steadily becoming heavier. These red flags relate to the bleeding itself and should be assessed even when perimenopause is a possible explanation.

Ask what causes should be ruled out, whether you need a blood count or other tests, how to manage troublesome bleeding, and which changes should trigger urgent help. Bring your cycle record and a list of medicines and contraception.