Menapause?

I am having irregular periods now in my life @ age 47.  Is this the beginning stages of menapause?  I am 5'3" -- 110 lbs.  I do not eat right my stress level is high and I worry about many things.  If it is time for menapause, should I worry about pregnancy still at the regular caluclation of the women's cycle or am I 'home free'?

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
You are right in the ballpark for menopause.  If you have a mother, or sisters who have already been through "the change" you can ask them how old they were--it is hereditary to a certain extent.
Unfortunately, you aren't "home free" yet, until the periods stop completely, so use protection, and don't forget about the Morning After pill -- Plan B.
You don't need to worry about periods that are too far apart, but if they start coming really close together, ( less than 21 days) you should notify your doctor.
Good luck!
Dr B