Perimenopause is the transition period leading up to menopause, which is the point when a woman's menstrual cycles stop permanently. This transition usually begins for women in their late 30s to mid 40s, but can start earlier or later.
Some key things to know about perimenopause:
- It's the time when a woman's body begins transitioning to menopause. This means hormone levels, especially estrogen, start to fluctuate and decline.
- The most common symptoms are changes in your menstrual cycle. Your periods may become lighter or heavier, closer together or farther apart, and more unpredictable.
- Hot flashes and night sweats are also common due to the hormone fluctuations. These can come on suddenly and feel intensely hot and sweaty.
- Mood changes like irritability, anxiety, and depression can occur too. Trouble sleeping is another frequent complaint.
- Vaginal dryness and pain with sex is common as estrogen levels fall. This can lead to discomfort and painful intercourse.
- Some women lose interest in sex during perimenopause. But others report an increased libido.
- Cognitive issues like brain fog, trouble focusing, and memory lapses are often reported as well.
- Your risk of certain health conditions goes up, like osteoporosis and heart disease, as estrogen wanes.
The duration of perimenopause varies. It typically lasts
4-8 years but can be shorter or longer. Getting through this transition time can be challenging. But there are many ways to find relief from symptoms:
- Hormone therapy - Estrogen or combination estrogen/progestin therapy can help reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
- Vaginal estrogen - Localized, low-dose estrogen straight to the vaginal tissues can help painful sex.
- Lifestyle changes - Regular exercise, a healthy diet, limiting alcohol, and managing stress are all beneficial.
- OTC remedies - Lubricants, moisturizers, and cooling gels can provide symptom relief.
If you're struggling with perimenopause, the medical providers at
Vitality Health Center can help. Their experienced
hormone doctors specialize in perimenopause and menopause care. They offer customized
hormone balancing programs to help women find the right solutions. Contact Vitality Health Center today to learn more and take control of your perimenopause symptoms.