there can be multiple explanations for your periods being unusual for you. it could be related to early perimenopausal changes. but before we assume that it would be good to rule out other causes of this type of bleeding -- even something like hypothyroidism could give you these symptoms. so i would definitely check in with your health-care provider -- she will want to examine you. she may want to do an ultrasound to look into the body of the uterus; she might even want to do a sampling of the lining of the uterus ("endometrial biopsy"). she also probably will want to check your thyroid and your blood count -- you might well need some extra iron given your bleeding. but the good news is no matter what the cause it can usually be helped -- so do check in with your health-care provider both for a diagnosis and intervention -- to make you feel better.
at 42 i've always had five-day periods. now i'm having two periods a month. should i see my doctor? . the last few years they have become heavier with lots of cramping and lasting up to 10 days.