Menopause 
Most women have been caught off guard at some point by the start of their period. You can note your usual cycle on a calendar, but a change in hormones sometimes makes periods come unexpectedly. For many women, this becomes more frequent as they transition through menopause.
Irregular periods are often the first sign that menopause is approaching. You may be experiencing irregular periods if you have heavier periods, sporadic flows, spotting between periods, and blood clots. To prevent any embarrassing situations, always stay prepared for unexpected bleeding.
Sanitary Products
Always have sanitary products with you. It is also advisable that you have a constant supply at work. Having them at home isn't always enough. Make sure you are ready for your period to start in any social situation or outing.
Pain Relief
Keep pain killers for menstrual cramps in your purse. This means you can quickly deal with pain if you start to suffer from irregular periods.
Sensible Clothing
White linen trousers, for example, would not be a good choice if you unexpectedly start a heavy period. Wear dark colors and clothes that would make any blood stain hard to see.
Extra Underwear
Even if you are going out for the evening and can only carry a small bag, it's still good to carry an extra pair of panties with you. This is a slight inconvenience, but it will be worth it if you need them.
Mental Preparation
Having a period, for some women, is not an enjoyable time of the month. Try to prepare yourself for the irregularity and try not to let it unsettle you. Maybe have some loose change at hand so you can buy a small treat you are craving, and take comfort in the fact that irregular periods are leading to no periods at all.
More Information
Irregular periods are experienced by almost every woman during some stage of her life. They can occur for 2 to 10 years before periods actually stop. It is not normal to bleed after menopause, so postmenopausal bleeding should be address by a doctor. Also, irregular periods can be a sign of something more than the onset of menopause; they can indicate a serious health problem. You cannot prevent irregular periods, but there are ways to cope with them and control them.
Follow this link to find out more about irregular periods.
Sources
- BMJ Group. "Menopause: What is it?" Patient Leaflet. 2007
- Hutchinson, Susan M.D. "The Stages of a Woman's Life: Menstruation, Pregnancy, Nursing, Perimenopause, Menopause". November 2007.
- Love, Susan M.D. Menopause and Hormone Book. New York: Three Rivers Press, 2003.
