given your age you are probably getting close to menopause. as you approach this time of life you may notice changes in your periods just like those you have described. the most common symptoms are spacing out of menses and less bleeding although the opposite can be seen as well. other symptoms that you may experience are hot flashes night sweats vaginal dryness and mood swings. however regardless of your age it is best to discuss these changes with your doctor because these same changes in your periods could also be a sign of other abnormalities (e. g. thyroid disorders and uterine cancer) which need to be evaluated.
my last 2 periods have been painful and heavy and a strong odor and the 1 st period was 2 wks late. i am 48.