Perimenopause
What is it?
Perimenopause or pre-menopause is the transitional period before menopause that can last between two to six years. It can appear in women as early as 30 years of age, but typically begins between the ages of 40 to 51. Women begin to cease having regular menstruation cycles. Women who begin to experience a break in cyclic activity, but not more than a three month break are considered to be in early perimenopause according to the World Health Organization.Perimenopause may sound new to you. It has not been until recently that the researchers distinguished perimenopause as a biological process different than menopause.
Signs of Perimenopause
- Menstrual irregularity - both in cycle length and the amount of flow.Increasing months of amenorrhea (absence of menstruation).
- Some women may experience:
Hot flashes
Night sweats
Vaginal dryness
Vaginal thinning - may cause discomfort, itching, and dyspareunia (pain after or during sexual intercourse)
Skin changes
Fatigue
Headaches
Memory Loss
Dizziness
Palpitations
Decreased libido
Mood swings
Weight gain
Joint pain
Depression and/or anxiety
Hair loss on the head
Hair growth on the face
These symptoms may range from mild to severe, changing daily. Some women experience a combination of PMS and menopausal symptoms, while some experience no symptoms at all.Sound like fun? Not really, but there is hope. Studies have proven that estrogen therapy can alleviate many of these symptoms.If you think you are experiencing the onset of perimenopause contact Rocky Mountain GYN & Hormone Center to make an appointment -> 939-3505. It is not necessary to have your quality of life degenerate.
A quick note: Until you are absolutely in menopause, no periods for one year, you can still become pregnant. Discuss contraceptive methods with us during your appointment.
