My menstruation cycle is becoming shorter by 3-4 days each month. I am 42 years old. Am I nearing menopause?

You could be. I think the average age a woman starts menopause is 50-55 now. You might want to talk to your doctor about it so you can form a plan about what to do if you are thinking of taking any hormone pills or anything. That might ease your mind.

Probably yes

Menopause is a normal change in a woman’s life when her period stops. It is often called the “change of life.” During perimenopause, a woman’s body slowly makes less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. This often happens between the ages of 45 and 55 years old. A woman has reached menopause when she has not had a period for 12 months in a row, and there are no other causes for this change. As you near menopause, you may have symptoms from the changes your body is making. Many women wonder if these changes are normal, and many are confused about how to treat their symptoms. You can feel better by learning all you can about menopause, and talking with your doctor about your health and your symptoms. If you want to treat your symptoms, your doctor can tell you more about your options and help you make the best treatment choices.