Question:

Hopefully you can answer some questions that I cannot find answers for. How long does menopause usually last? I am 46, and I’ve been having night sweats for about two years, off and on. I have only one ovary; the other was taken out 18 years ago. My cycle was punctual – 28 to 29 days for about three to five days – until about four months ago. Now I bleed for two to three weeks, have a break of a day or two, and then bleed for another two to three weeks, and so on. The first week usually is a normal flow – sometimes heavy, sometimes light – but the second week is heavy and extremely clotty. I'm really getting tired of this. Can you help me with some solutions – ASAP?

Debby

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Answer:

This could continue for a while. Perimenopause can last six or more years, and irregular periods – including spotting, or atypically heavy or light flow – can be symptoms of it. That said, it sounds like your period is lasting most of the month, which sounds a little unusual. It would be worth asking a doctor to check into it.