As you age, you may experience various changes in your body, such as weakening bones, sagging skin, and decreased cognitive abilities. In women, one of the noticeable changes is irregular menstruation. But what is the connection between aging and menstrual health? We spoke to our expert Vidhi Chawla, nutritionist and founder of Physico Diet and Beauty Clinic, Gurugram, who explained the impact of menopause on menstruation.
Most women experience irregular menstrual cycles as they enter their 40s or 50s. This change is primarily associated with the transition to perimenopause. This is a transitional phase that usually begins in the late 40s, but can begin earlier for some women. “During this phase, the body undergoes significant hormonal changes that can disrupt regular menstrual cycles. As a result, menstrual cycles can become shorter, longer, heavier, lighter, or even disappear altogether,” Chawla said.
The Massachusetts Women’s Health Study (MWHS) found that for women over age 50, shorter menstrual periods and shorter periods of bleeding or spotting were more common in early menopause. In contrast, menstrual cycles that last 90 days or more appear late in the transition period.
Premenopausal symptoms
Symptoms of perimenopause can vary, however, these are some common symptoms described by Johns Hopkins Medicine:
- Hot flashes
- Headache
- Mood swings.
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Vaginal dryness
- Sleep problems
- Frequent urination
- Joint and muscle pain
- Changes in libido
Causes of irregular menstruation in the 40s and 50s
The main reason for irregular periods is fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone. These are two key hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle. “As the ovaries age, their efficiency in releasing eggs decreases, leading to changes in cycle length, flow, and frequency. As a result, you may experience shorter cycles, lighter or heavier periods, or spotting,” Chawla explained.
Although aging is a common cause of irregular menstruation in women in their 40s and 50s, some other factors may also play a role:
- Stress: Dealing with chronic stress can affect your hormonal balance and lead to menstrual irregularities.
- Lifestyle factors: Poor diet, smoking, or a sedentary lifestyle can also cause hormonal problems.
- Health conditions: Thyroid disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or uterine fibroids can also contribute to irregular menstruation during this time.
- Medications: Hormone therapy or birth control can affect the menstrual cycle.
When to see a doctor
It’s important to distinguish normal premenopausal changes from potential health problems. According to the Office on Women’s Health (OASH), menopause typically begins in the mid- to late 40s. The perimenopause period lasts about four years before menstruation stops.
Watch for these symptoms to see if you are at risk:
- Heavy bleeding
- Long periods
- Bleeding between cycles
These symptoms require medical attention as they could indicate underlying conditions such as endometrial hyperplasia or cancer.
Also read: Irregular periods can affect your heart health: An expert explains how to deal with it
How to manage irregular menstruation
According to a 2023 study, 5 to 35.6 percent of women have irregular menstrual cycles, depending on age, occupation, and country of residence. To manage irregular periods, start by adopting a healthy lifestyle and maintaining a balanced diet. Physical activity and meditation are also important for reducing stress. If symptoms are severe, you may be offered hormone therapy or other medical interventions. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help you make these changes safely and comfortably.
[ Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by a professional and is for informational purposes only. Therefore, we recommend that you consult your specialist regarding any health issues to avoid complications. ]
