Help!

[libby]

Hi Girls
I need your help, I'm 42 and ttc but my last cycle was 22 days (normally 26-29) I am now on day 17 and have started bleeding again. My b--bs have been achey for a few weeks too.
I'm not pregnant - tested 3 times!
My Mum started her menopause at 40. Is this the start of mine?
Really fed up at the mo, got an appt next week with my GP, what tests will she ask for?
Feeling very
Libby
xxx

[raccioc]

Libby,

It is common for cycles to vary in length as the menopause approaches, they can either become shorter or longer. The period leading up to the menopause is called peri menopause and can last for a few years.

If you are not experiencing menopausal symptoms then you are probably some way away from the actual big M itself. My Mum went through the menopause at 38 but I am 40 and have just given birth so don't panic! I also had some symptoms which I thought were the start of the menopause before I got pregnant with James which I posted about on here. I am hoping my periods don't come back now!

My paternal grandmother had my uncle at 42 whilst she was actually in the middle of the change, and my MIL got pregnant naturally at 45 after her periods had ceased. If this is the start of the big M it is not a barrier to pregnancy as my two stories illustrate. In fact doctors recommend using contraception for up to 2 years after periods stop which my MIL didn't bother doing. My BIL was the result!

Hang in there.

Rachel

[Baltimore Mom]

Dear Libby:

I'm sorry I have no advice to offer. Hopefully your GP will have some answers for you. I would take some encouragement form Rachel's post and keep trying for your much wanted baby.

Karen

[libby]

Thanks Karen and Rachel,
I'm hoping that I get sent for a blood test-FSH levels? Will that show whether I am on the way to menopause or not?
I want to know either way, because it will effect so many things in my life!
Will let you know what happens but thanks for the advice
Hugs
Libby
xxx

[Baltimore Mom]

Hi Libby:

FSH levels taken on day 2 or 3 of your cycle will give you an idea of your ovarian reserve but I'm not sure how good of a predictor of menopause it is. I've heard of a number of ladies getting pregnant with high FSH levels. Good luck at the docs today.

Karen

[Liz1967]

Hi Libby

I have only just seen this, so sorry you are having this worry, hope you get on OK at the doctors. I was 41 and a bit when I conceived Joshua and my periods were still all over the place from having Daniel.

Fingers crossed you are just as lucky xx

(((hugs)))

Love
Liz
xx

[libby]

Hi Girls
Going for an FSH blood test tomorrow, not sure how accurate it is though.
Will let you know
Thanks for your support and advice
Libby
xxxx

[Judy]

Hello Libby,

Whatever the result of your FSH test, ladies on here will agree that it can & does change all the time!

Many people with a poor result have been able to get pregnant!

It certainly isn't an exact science!

Wishing you all the luck in the world!

Judyxxx

[sarahx]

Hi Libby,

I so feel for you as i've been wondering the same thing & when you're so keen to conceive it doesn't bear thinking about.

I've had my first FSH result of 11 a while ago which I thought was ok but the Dr said to give a better idea it should be repeated after 6 weeks because, as other ladies have said, it can vary alot.

I had my 2nd one last week & will phone for the result tomorrow.

Good luck, be interested to hear how you get on. Take care.

Sarahx

[libby]

Thanks girls!
Sarah, let me know how you get on, I just feel like my body is going to pot at the mo!
Hugs
Libby
xxx