Am I going through the menopause?

Hot flushes

I'd like to come off HRT. What should I do?

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Question

My last period was almost three months ago. I haven't had one since. I've done three home pregnancy tests - all proved negative.

I have not yet gone to the doctor, but am now worried that I might be going through the menopause. I suffer from mood swings, hot flushes and my body aches. I can't sleep at night, I feel bloated and my breasts hurt.

I will visit my doctor, but surely three pregnancy tests can't be wrong?

Answer

The three tests are probably not wrong. However, it would be extremely unusual for a 33-year-old to go through the menopause so that isn't the likely explanation either.

It is terribly common for periods to miss - typically on a one-off basis, and sometimes a few in a row - even if this has never happened to you before. You are right to go and get it checked out by your GP.

You seem to have more going on than just an absent period - what with the mood swings, breast symptoms and everything - so it is probably a hormonal disturbance. Rest assured that most of these are very temporary.

Yours sincerely

Dr Bob Leckridge, GP

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