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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Sudden Change In Menstrual Cycle?

howdy Age 43. Have had 3 successful pregnancies. No changes in my life. Period always regular and nothing abnormal since it began at age 13.5. Due in less than a week and yesterday and today experiencing only slight cramping but feel fine but have dark brown (almost black) blood. Not flowing like regular period. Should I be worried, what is this?
Mon, 18 Jan 2016
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
welcome to hcm,
I really appreciate your concern,
This can be the indication of menopause that is stopping of menstrual cycle.
Also, there are certain factors that can precipitate it - stress, anxiety, unaccustomed exercise, weight changes, travelling, late nights, excessive smoking or drinking , erratic eating or sleeping habits etc.
Have you taken the pregnancy test?
Wait for a couple of cycles more.
IF the irregularity and spotting(dark brown blood which you have mentioned) persists, you should seek a Gynecological opinion.
THis would involve an internal exam, a pelvic ultrasound scan, a Pap smear and hormonal assay ( FSH, LH, TSH, Prolactin, OGTT, DHEAS, Free testosterone ).
It would highlight any potential causes such as fibroids, polyps, cervical lesions, ovarian cysts etc
Please let me know if you have any further questions.
Thanks. regards.
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What Causes Sudden Change In Menstrual Cycle?

welcome to hcm, I really appreciate your concern, This can be the indication of menopause that is stopping of menstrual cycle. Also, there are certain factors that can precipitate it - stress, anxiety, unaccustomed exercise, weight changes, travelling, late nights, excessive smoking or drinking , erratic eating or sleeping habits etc. Have you taken the pregnancy test? Wait for a couple of cycles more. IF the irregularity and spotting(dark brown blood which you have mentioned) persists, you should seek a Gynecological opinion. THis would involve an internal exam, a pelvic ultrasound scan, a Pap smear and hormonal assay ( FSH, LH, TSH, Prolactin, OGTT, DHEAS, Free testosterone ). It would highlight any potential causes such as fibroids, polyps, cervical lesions, ovarian cysts etc Please let me know if you have any further questions. Thanks. regards.