What Causes Change In The Pattern And Amount Of Bleeding During Periods?

Posted on Sat, 7 Dec 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 7 Dec 2013 Answered on

Sat, 28 Dec 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : I am 40 yrs and have protected sex. Last month I missed my period and had negative urine test 1 1/2 weeks after I missed it and also negative blood test. I still didn't get my period until 3 1/2 weeks after I was supposed to start. This period was different from my normal ones.I usually have intense cramps followed by two days of heavy bleeding. This one lasted 7 and was very light and came and went. I had regular PMS symptoms (sore breasts, cramping and bloating) which did go away once I started bleeding. I was told by another docter on this site that I missed my previous period due to the fact that I have been training for a marathon and also because I I had a breast biopsy a few weeks before my previous missed period. I want to know if I should be concerned

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rakhi Tayal (48 minutes later)

Brief Answer: No need to worry. Detailed Answer: Hello, Thanks for trusting us with your health concern. The change in the pattern and amount of bleeding is commonly associated with stress, anxiety or a mild hormonal disturbances. Since you had your periods almost 7 weeks after your last periods, a hormonal problem is likely. You can wait till your next cycle to see if the bleeding returns to normal. In case the cycles are longer and the bleeding remains light then few blood investigations will help in detecting the cause of irregularity. Right now there is no need to worry. Please feel free to discuss further. I will be glad to answer the follow up queries that you have. Wishing you good health. Regards. Dr. Rakhi Tayal.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar