Hey specialmom! I must have overlooked your post. It varies by individual. Some women do end up going longer and longer between periods until they just stop altogether. But I don't know if that's the majority or not. Some women have more frequent periods / shorter cycles while others have longer cycles. And some experience a combination during the perimenopausal years. Bleeding patterns run the gamut too. Periods can be heavier or lighter and basically unpredictable. How's that for knowing what to expect?!
Birth control can make things much more manageable during this time. Non-hormonal Rx tranexamic acid is another option for heavy bleeding although won't normalize your cycle. Rx strength NSAID's can also reduce heavy bleeding. Unfortunately, many women end up having hysterectomies to treat these (temporary) problems and are left with all the side effects, most of which are permanent.
Thyroid problems also tend to manifest during this time in our lives which can also affect the menstrual cycle. Certainly a time of flux!!