My periods are a bit irregular. I had a painful stomach ache this morning and found a bit of blood on my knickers. Now there is nothing there. Is this due to the menopause? My period was irregular last month too and wasn't like a proper period.

Changing periods are often one of the first signs that you are approaching the menopause and you are in the average age range, 45-55, so it is possible.

Periods at this point can vary between heavy and light, on time, late, early, missing, long, or short!  

You can ask your doctor  to test your hormone levels and that might give you a better idea of what is happening.

Eileen Durward