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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    How do I control my heavy and inconsistent periods during perimenopause?

    Related Topics
    Menopause Women's Health
    I am a long-term CFS sufferer, have food and chemical intolerances, am an insomniac, suffer hormonal migraines,have low Iron levels, and have suffered from endometriosis since my periods commenced. Now, my periods are taking over what's left of my life. I miss a month then the next month I will “spot” for just over a week before starting to bleed. My bleeding will last 2 to 3 weeks and has been quite heavy (I use toddler nappies for pads) and I shed a lot of “tissue” This is pretty much sucking the life out of me (and believe me, I'm used to constant fatigue and not feeling well)and I have become a recluse and very concerned about the situation. I have been given “CYKLOKAPRON” to control the bleeding, but I worry about the possible side effects. How long will this situation go on, and is there something more “natural” I can take to alleviate it?
    • 2 answers
    • Angela Jackson
    • Dr Carolyn Ee
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  • Angela Jackson

    Exercise Scientist

    I have qualifications as an Exercise Scientist, Herbalist and Health Coach, with over 10 years experience in the preventative health industry helping people to improve … View Profile

    Hi, it sounds like you have a few different health concerns, some very long standing. Unfortunately that generally means there is no easy fix, however I do believe Herbal Medicine has a lot to offer in terms of hormonal regulation and support of the body systems while you transition through menopause. As there are some complex things to consider I think it would be best to see a Naturopath or Herbalist that specialises in womens' health, so they can take a full health history and ensure that everything is considered for the best path forward.
    Good luck with your journey on the road to wellness!

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  • Dr Carolyn Ee

    Acupuncturist, GP (General Practitioner)

    I'm a Sydney GP with a special interest in women's health especially menopause and TTC ( trying to conceive). I specialise in acupuncture, and am … View Profile

    Hi, sorry to hear about all the exhausting bleeding. Cyclokapron is generally well tolerated, and I wouldn't hesitate to prescribe it even to someone with your level of sensitivity. However it may not work all the time to reduce bleeding. Your other option then would be to consider a Mirena IUD (intrauterine device) insertion. It has very few side effects as it is a small device that sits inside the uterus and releases some progesterone (a female hormone) only locally into the uterus and not into the actual bloodstream. There is a high chance that your bleeding will then slow down dramatically, and a good chance it will stop altogether, although the first few months after insertion are usually marked with some irregular bleeding.

    If you have never had babies, insertion is a bit more difficult and can be done under sedation/ general anaesthetic. Otherwise, insertion is simple and done as an office procedure. (I have just had one put in myself).

    I would suggest speaking to your GP after a trial of Cyclokapron, and asking for a referral to a gynaecologist. Also do get your iron levels checked as they are likely to be low, and you will need supplementation with iron in order to regain your energy. Thyroid function should also be checked as any abnormalities can cause heavy bleeding.

    Good luck

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