Im 49 and i hadn't had a period in 8 mnths. now i'm bleeding. is this normal? i thought i was starting menopause.

Not normal: While this may not be considered post menopausal bleeding, it is more correctly referred to as abnormal uterine bleeding and needs further evaluation. This would include ultrasound and possibly other testing. If you are in st . Louis, my practice can schedule most new patients in 24 hours. 314-993-6401.

Maybe: As a woman transitions into menopause her menses may get lighter and/or begin to skip i.E her "menses pause" and she may have symptoms of hot flushes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and insomnia. We say that a woman is "peimenopausal" at this time. A woman is 'menopausal" or "postmenopausal" when 1 year has elapsed without a menses. Medical conditions can also affect menses. See your doctor.

Maybe: We use the diagnosis of menopause when the menses has stopped for 12 months. The ovaries can still produce enough estrogen after many months to cause another menstrual period like happened with you. You are likely in the perimenopausal period of your life when irregular menses are common. If you are having other symptoms, there are treatments available.