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Hi dreamconfetti,

Thank you for sharing your question with the EmpowHER community!

I understand why you are concerned.  It sounds like your menstrual cycles are very regular and have consistent characteristics.  Anytime things change with our bodies, we should take note. 

Some common examples of menstrual problems:

·         Periods that occur 21 days or more

·         Missing 3 or more periods

·         Heavier flow or lighter than usual

·         Lasting longer than 7 days

·         Periods that are accompanied by pain, cramping, nausea or vomiting

·         Bleeding between periods

Some discomfort during the cycle is normal, but the additional pain you are experiencing could be Dysmenorrhea, which is painful periods and severe menstrual cramps. 

With regards to your flow, is there any abnormal odor with the change in color from bright red to darker? 

Heavy discharge with unpleasant odor, irregular periods, pain in the pelvic and lower abdominal areas, fever, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea are potential signs of (PID) Pelvic Inflammatory Disease.

Endometriosis may cause abnormal bleeding, cramps or pain before and during periods and painful intercourse.

I suggest keeping a diary of how things are different and sharing this information with your doctor at your next scheduled appt.  If things get really uncomfortable, go get checked out sooner.

Here is some additional information to review:

What is an Abnormal Period?

Abnormal Menstruation

I hope this helps!

Be well

~Gillette