Hi all
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Been browsing for a little while and finally decided to join. I'm 45, and up until last summer my cycle was a regular 23-27 days, my period lasted a week and I often got a slight spotting at ovulation. I'd been using the Paraguard for over 20 years without any issue.
Then last summer, when work got very stressful and we were also getting poisoned by solvent fumes from an art studio next door, I suddenly started getting spotting before my period (anything from 4-9 days) with increased cramping. I saw my GP in November and have been tested for infection (none bar a bit of occasional BV) and had an ultrasound. I have a very slightly enlarged uterus but they just diagnosed possible early fibroids/adenomyosis. My GP suggested having the Paraguard removed might reduce the bleeding - it's made my periods slightly slighter and the awful cramping has pretty much gone, but had no effect at all on the spotting. She suggested the Mirena might help but I wasn't keen, especially if it might stop my periods entirely. I like to know where I am with things.
About 6 months ago I started back on Agnus Castus tincture which has helped with all my PMS sore boobs and bloating, but no use with the spotting. I also cut down on caffeine, sugar, wheat etc and take iron supplements. I am assuming from google research that my progesterone levels might be low, hence the agnus castus. I haven't experienced much in the way of hot flushes, night sweats etc beyond the odd moment I have always had. My libido has taken a pounding as I'm stressing about the spotting, although my partner is being an absolute star.
Also feeling quite drained most of the month, especially from when the spotting starts to when my period ends. Just had some bloods done today for iron, thyroid and blood count, results at end of week. GP suggested it might be oestrogen levels taking a dip after ovulation and that a patch such as Evorel Sequi could help. I was put off straight away by spotting being a possible side effect.
Has anyone experienced anything like this, and did anything help? I kind of assumed perimenopause would be a bit more stop starty. My cycle length hasn't changed at all, I'm just spotting for a good week before and nothing I have done seems to help