My period started on 22/02/11 it usually is quite heavy and lasts 5-6days max. this time it lasted 8 days then a thick brownish red discharge followed on some days turning red and slightly heavy then going back to brown with almost bitty pieces in it, on day 16 its gone back red and is like I'm starting a new period,today is day 18 and its as heavy as day 2 of a normal period,I keep getting stabbing pains and cramps I am 44yrs old and usually quite regular with a cycle of between 23 and 28 days but the past 6 months it varys between 37 days and 16. What could this be? In the past I has several (5) abnormal smear tests but haven't had one since 2009 even though I was told I should have one yearly because of my smear history, please help.

It's possible that you could be entering menopause.

Due to your past history, a trip to the doctor is in order for you.

Hi J_9, yes that is a possibility thank you, but given my history I need confirmation that it isn't anything else so I went to my gynecologist l Wednesday 02/03/11 she said that I should go back to her on the 9th,and she would help me, I went back and all she did was say go to my Gp to discuss it, so I'm trying to make a gps appointment but so far with no luck and in the meantime I'm left worrying.xx

If I were you, and my profession is in women's health, I would find another GYN.

I Think you're probably right my love, thank you.Enjoy the rest of your day.xx