Ladies,
I was told at 41 that I had begun peri. That was almost exactly one year ago(birthday present). My mom was 55 when she stopped and my sisters are 51 and 53 with little-to-no signs of even peri!! Guess I'm an overachiever!
Here's my current experience AND a lot of TMI....
Earlier this month I had ultrasounds and they found fibroids, cyst, thick lining. So - had to have an endometrial biopsy yesterday. It was quick, painless and easy. Thankfully I have kept detailed notes of the last 6 months and schedules going back almost 2 years and the dr could use that to assist in my diagnosis. He says that I have probably have had borderline PCOS my entire life but now with my aging hormones...it's finally manifested with horrific cramps, a heavy, heavy flow, irregular cycles that are closer and closer together and longer. Even though the results of biospy won't be back until Monday the dr is going to go ahead and schedule a hydrothermal ablation since it takes 1-2 months to get a surgery date. Also - just looking at the sample - he could tell that I wasn't a good "slougher". I had just finished my TOM but there was way too much still in my uterus. My body
thought it was done, but really only did half the job. Apparently that's how the lining just keeps building up. He said my body was
almost working. After ablation the best chance scenario: no period for 4-5 years. If it starts again after that long, he'll do another ablation and that should put me past meno age. Worst case: doesn't work and I am right where I am now...or look towards a hysterectomy. Or if results are not good on Monday - a hysterectomy first.
My other option was hormones 1-2 times a day until menopause. Basically for who knows how long. I'm not a big fan of HRT, so...opted for ablation. I figure I'm not using the lining anymore (already had my 2 kids). Better than more drugs every day!!
Unfortunately for the ablation I do have to take meds for 7 days to try and normalize my cycle and thin out the lining as much as possible prior to surgery. Yippee! When I filled my prescription the pharmacist informed me of all the possible side effects but all I heard was
weight gain is a fairly common side effect of the HRT. When she said that I had an itsy bitsy panic moment. Thank goodness I only have to take 7 days worth! Or another 7 days the month after - depends on surgery date.
All of that to say: There doesn't seem to be a set norm for everyone BUT if it isn't normal for you - get it checked out!