It is possible but uncommon for a 59 year old woman to still have regular menstrual periods. Here is a quick overview of what to expect with menstruation at this age:
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause refers to the transitional stage leading up to menopause when hormone levels begin to fluctuate. This usually begins in a woman’s 40s but can start as early as the 30s. During perimenopause, periods may become irregular and other menopausal symptoms like hot flashes may emerge.
Average Age of Menopause
The average age of menopause (defined as 12 months without a period) is 51 in the United States. However, it’s normal for this to occur anywhere between ages 45-55.
| Age Range | Classification |
|---|---|
| 45-55 | Normal |
| 40-45 | Early menopause |
| Before age 40 | Premature menopause |
Is Menstruation at 59 Possible?
Yes, it is possible for a woman to still have her period at age 59, but it is uncommon. Less than 5% of women reach natural menopause after age 55. Here are some reasons a 59 year old may still menstruate:
- Perimenopause lasts several years for some women, with irregular cycles continuing into their late 50s.
- Premature ovarian failure may cause periods to stop for several years and then restart later in life.
- Certain medications or health conditions may play a role in delaying menopause.
- In very rare cases, a benign tumor on the ovaries could stimulate estrogen production and maintain menstrual cycles.
When to See a Doctor
It’s a good idea for any woman over age 55 who is still menstruating to see her doctor to determine the cause. Tests may be done to check hormone levels and rule out potential problems in the reproductive system. Treatment depends on the underlying reason periods are continuing:
- Hormone therapy can provide relief from perimenopausal symptoms.
- Medications may be adjusted if they are contributing to prolonged periods.
- Birth control pills can regulate cycles during the transition to menopause.
- For serious conditions, surgery may be required (hysterectomy or removal of ovarian cysts).
What to Expect with Prolonged Periods
For women who continue having periods into their late 50s, here’s what they may experience:
- Irregular, inconsistent cycles – It’s common to miss periods some months or have heavy bleeding other months.
- Shorter cycles – Cycles may shorten to every 21-24 days compared to 28 days during the reproductive years.
- Lighter flow – Lower estrogen levels may lead to lighter and shorter periods.
- Premenstrual symptoms – Hormone fluctuations can still trigger symptoms like mood swings, bloating and breast tenderness before periods.
In summary, it is uncommon but possible for a woman to still have her period at 59 years old. The cause should be evaluated by a doctor. With prolonged menstruation at this age, cycles are likely to be irregular. However, estrogen fluctuations can still trigger premenstrual symptoms. Most women will reach menopause in their early 50s, but the transition can take longer for some. Contact your doctor if you have any concerns about continued periods as you near age 60.
When Periods Should Completely Stop
It is expected for all women to have complete cessation of menstrual periods by around age 60, even for those with persistently irregular cycles. Here are some reasons periods should stop by this age:
- The fertility window has passed – Eggs are no longer being released and fertilization is no longer possible.
- Hormone levels continue to decline – Estrogen drops to lower levels insufficient for building the uterine lining.
- Age-related changes – The ovaries, uterus and other reproductive organs go through changes that end the menstrual cycle.
By age 60, less than 1% of women still have periods. If periods continue beyond age 60, it is considered abnormal. Here are some potential causes that require medical evaluation:
- Hormone-producing tumors – Tumors on the ovaries or pituitary gland may secrete hormones and maintain menstrual cycles abnormally.
- Anovulatory bleeding – Bleeding occurs without ovulation due to issues like enlarged uterus or hormone imbalances.
- Medications – Blood thinners like heparin or heart medications can sometimes cause bleeding.
- Cancer – Uterine or ovarian cancers in rare cases may cause postmenopausal bleeding.
Any postmenopausal bleeding should be reported to a doctor. Tests like ultrasound, biopsy or hormone panels may be recommended to identify potential problems. Treatment depends on the cause but may include surgery, hormone therapies or stopping problematic medications.
Warning Signs to Watch For
See a doctor promptly if you experience:
- Bleeding or spotting after 12 months without a period
- Periods that resume after stopping for one year or longer
- Extremely heavy bleeding or prolonged periods
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
While rarely normal, it is possible in some cases for women over 60 to experience occasional light bleeding related to hormonal fluctuations. However, any bleeding that seems abnormal merits medical attention to identify potential gynecologic issues. With evaluation and proper treatment, most causes can be effectively managed.
Conclusion
In summary:
- It is uncommon but possible for women to still have periods at age 59.
- Less than 5% of women naturally reach menopause after age 55.
- Any periods continuing past age 60 are abnormal and warrant medical evaluation.
- Causes for bleeding after menopause include tumors, uterine abnormalities and certain medications.
- Postmenopausal bleeding should never be ignored, even if episodes are occasional or light.
- Prolonged periods at this age may be irregular but still cause premenstrual symptoms.
- See your doctor if you have ongoing menstruation as you near age 60 to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
While menopause typically occurs in a woman’s early 50s, the transition can take longer in some cases. Persistent periods past age 59 are uncommon and should be discussed with your doctor. With proper evaluation, any underlying causes can be identified and managed to help ensure optimal health.