I am a 40 year old woman and 4 months ago I noticed that towards the end of my period the blood would be dark brown. Actually the blood during the period all seems a little bit darker, but definitely after the first 2 or 3 days it is dark brown. I am on schedule and have no other differences to my cycle. Is this normal? The start of menopause? Or could it be something more serious?

Please advise.

This could be normal as you are reaching the perimenopausal age (beginning of menopause). However, I have to ask when your last female physical was. It may be time to schedule an appointment.

It has been just about a year and a half, so yes it is time to schedule an exam.

Well, I don't have an answer but am glad to see someone else having this. I am only 32 and this cycle has been long (bleeding 8 days now) and it's gone from normal color to VERY dark brown. I've been sick and so have our children, so I'm wondering if fatigue, sickness and change in diet (been drinking some soda which I don't usually do) is impacting anything. Has your diet changed at all?