I am just beginning menopause and have skipped a few periods during the last year. After not having a period for 2 months, I got the period from hell - extremely painful, heavy, clotty (sorry, I know that's gross) and it has a foul odor (sorry, I know that's even grosser). Is this normal for menopause? I have no health insurance so I don't want to just run to the doc unless it's important...

It can be normal... some women will have lighter periods, some heavier, some will skip one here and there, some will bleed for an extended time, and sometimes a heavier flow will follow a skipped period. It really does vary from person to person.

Unfortunately, there is just no way to know if what you are experiencing is menopause related. It likely is, but you would need to see your doctor to be certain as there are other possible causes for unusual bleeding.

What about the possibility of going to your local health department?

Good idea. I think I'll look into a local chapter of planned parenthood, they may be able to help. I suppose I should go... Thanks for the reply.