WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for November, 2002: Re: Short cycle, irregular periods: problem or peri-menopause?

Re: Short cycle, irregular periods: problem or peri-menopause?

From: William McIntosh, MD (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Wed, 20 Nov 2002 08:45:38 -0600 (CST)

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Reply: Taryn: "Re: Short cycle, irregular periods: problem or peri-menopause?"

At Tue, 19 Nov 2002, Taryn wrote: >
>I apologize for posting agin, but there was a blank doctor's response on
>the prior posting, so i fear that the answer got deleted:
>
>I am a 44 year old woman that has recently experiencd very short and
>irregular menstrual cycles over the past six months. I should mention
>that I have always had very short periods (48hrs)..which has always been
>a blessing. However now I get them quite clsor together. However, the
>concern is I have had 18 21 and, now a 10 day cycle recently. The
>episodes are short, relatively light, and similar to my normal
>menstuation in type. I have gone through multiple pregnancies and have
>given birth to three healthy children vaginally.
>
>Since I am just turning 44, I just assumed that these short, irregular
>cycles are due to pre-menopausal changes, but my doctor acts as if this
>could be something else, which has alarmed me. I had an ultrasound
>about two months ago, which came back fine, but my doctor dismissed this
>and acts concerned, and even is thinking about a biopsy of my uterus,
>which I have heard is very painful.
>
>My question is really focused on the relative danger and concern that
>such short irregular cycles might bring to mind. In light of a clean
>pap smear and a clear ultrasound, I am wondering how concerned I should
>be. This is making me crazy Any feedback will be appreciated. (sorry
>for repost)

The actual danger that there is something abnormal growing in your uterus is small, about 5% overall, but the cost of missing it is so high, and these potential abnormalities so curable, that an endometrial biopsy is very much indicated in this situation. Paps don't tell you much about the inside of the uterus, only the cervix. U/S is pretty good, but the biopsy is the gold standard.

-- William D. McIntosh, MD, FACOG

This is for educational purposes only, and is not a substitute for consultation and examination by a licensed medical professional.

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