My periods are getting closer together and heavier but only last a couple of days, however I then get a brown stringy discharge for another week is this normal?

Changing periods are often one of the first signs that you are approaching the menopause. Periods at this point can vary between heavy and light, on time, late, early, missing, long or short and in any combination! The consistency, colour and smell of your periods can change as well and this is usually nothing to worry about.
 
However, if your periods continue to become heavy or prolonged it is important to check with your doctor as this can cause anaemia which in turn can cause fatigue, low mood, poor sleep etc. and you may need some iron tablets.

Eileen Durward