Perimenopause refers to the transitional stage leading up to menopause, which is the point when a woman's menstrual cycles permanently stop. The perimenopausal transition usually begins in a woman's 40s, but can start earlier or later.
During perimenopause, hormone levels begin to fluctuate and decline as the ovaries start functioning irregularly and prepare to stop releasing eggs. This leads to changes in menstruation, fertility, and common perimenopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, trouble sleeping, and more.
Key changes in perimenopause include:
The duration of perimenopause varies significantly among women, lasting anywhere from a few months to several years. Diagnosing perimenopause involves blood tests to measure hormone levels combined with evaluation of symptoms.
Managing perimenopause
Lifestyle measures like avoiding triggers, dressing in layers, stress reduction, regular exercise, and keeping cool can help alleviate perimenopausal symptoms naturally. For more stubborn symptoms, low-dose oral contraceptives, antidepressants, or hormone therapy may be recommended.
The medical professionals at Hormone Harmony Clinic specialize in perimenopause and menopause management. We provide customized care including bioidentical hormone therapy, nutrition plans, and holistic treatment approaches to help women transition through this stage smoothly. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation!
Going through perimenopause can be challenging and confusing. But understanding what lies ahead and utilizing appropriate coping strategies makes this transition more manageable. With the right information and support, many women are able to maintain a high quality of life during the perimenopausal years leading up to menopause.