is this normal

[Happy2girls]

I'm 41 y/o female.  I am experiencing increased and larger blood clots when I have my period and I am wondering if this is the normal progression towards menopause.  I am still regular, every 28 days, however my period lasts typically between 9 to 12 days with fairly heavy bleeding for 5 or 6 of those days.  My gyn is unconcerned as she said that since it's always been this way there is no reason to worry.  I wasn't regular until I gave birth to my second daughter 10 years ago.  Prior to that I had a period about 6 times a year if that.  During my last period the clotting had me a little frightened as they were so large and numerous.  Plus I had lower back pain as if I had a fist inside of me pushing to get out.  Should I be concerned?  

[Keith Downing, MD]

Hello,

If you are concerned and you feel your bleeding is heavier, tell your gyn you want to be evaluated for new onset menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding).  She or he shouldn't have a problem pursuing that evaluation with you.

Best regards,

Dr. Downing

[Cute08]

I think you should be  concerned. My mother used to have a lot of big clots for some months and she did not quite get it until she sow her gyno. A scan was done and was discovered that she had advanced fibroids which went an seen for a few years. After they were removed this stop. Her periods became normal but after 6 months she got her menopause she was also about year age.