What is Menopause?
Perimenopause is the transition to menopause, the time when a woman's menstrual periods stop permanently. It usually starts in a woman's 40s and can last for several years. During perimenopause, a woman's ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and fatigue.
The average age of menopause is 51, but it can occur as early as 40 or as late as 58. Perimenopause can begin as early as 35 or as late as 10 years before menopause.
The symptoms of perimenopause can be mild or severe, and they vary from woman to woman. The most common symptoms are:
Hot flashes: These are sudden feelings of warmth that can spread over your face, neck, chest, and upper body. They can last for a few seconds to a few minutes.
Night sweats: These are episodes of sweating that occur while you're asleep. They can be so severe that they soak your nightclothes and sheets.
Vaginal dryness: This is a decrease in the amount of moisture in the vagina. It can make sex uncomfortable or painful.
Irregular periods: Your periods may become shorter, lighter, or more frequent. You may also miss periods altogether.
Mood swings: You may experience mood swings, such as irritability, anxiety, or depression.
Fatigue: You may feel tired or have trouble sleeping.
Headaches: You may experience headaches, which may be worse at night.
Joint pain: You may experience joint pain, which may be worse in the morning.
Memory problems: You may experience memory problems, such as difficulty concentrating or remembering things.
There is no cure for perimenopause, but there are treatments that can help relieve the symptoms. Some of the most common treatments include:
Hormone therapy: This is a combination of estrogen and progesterone that can help relieve hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
Non-hormonal therapies: There are a number of non-hormonal therapies that can help relieve the symptoms of perimenopause. These include:
Lifestyle changes: These include exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep.
Over-the-counter medications: There are a number of over-the-counter medications that can help relieve hot flashes and night sweats.
Prescription medications: There are a number of prescription medications that can help relieve hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
Menopause is a natural part of life, but it can be a difficult time for many women. If you're experiencing symptoms of perimenopause, don't suffer in silence. Talk to your practitioner about treatment options.
