Menopause - Health Promotion Unit

How the menopause affects
your body
Irregular or heavy periods
Irregular periods are often the fi rst sign of the menopause. For
some women, periods become more regular, while for others they
become less regular. You may experience heavier bleeding and
periods that last longer. Over time, periods become less regular,
with occasional skipped periods, until they fi nally stop.
Self-help tips
• You can relieve mild period pain with gentle physical activity
or heat. You may need painkillers for stronger pain. Talk to
your doctor or pharmacist.
• Heavy bleeding and longer periods can reduce your iron levels,
so increase the amount of iron-rich food you eat, such as lean
red meat, fi sh, poultry, green leafy vegetables and enriched
whole grain breads and cereals. Try to combine these
with food or drinks rich in vitamin C to help your body
absorb iron.
• As you may not know when to expect your period, keep some
sanitary pads or tampons at home, at work and in your bag.
If you have very heavy bleeding, talk to your doctor about further
investigation and management.
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