Perimenopause

What is perimenopause?

Perimenopause refers to the transitional stage leading up to menopause when a woman's body begins producing less estrogen and progesterone. This phase can last anywhere from 2-10 years as the ovaries prepare to stop releasing eggs.

Some key things to know:

• It typically begins in your late 30s or early 40s, but can start earlier or later


• Fluctuating hormone levels during perimenopause cause a variety of symptoms


• It ends after 12 months without a period, marking the official start of menopause

Common Symptoms

Many women experience hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and other signs of hormonal imbalance during perimenopause. Some examples include:

• Irregular periods: Cycles may be longer, shorter, heavier, or lighter as ovulation becomes less frequent


• Vaginal dryness and pain with intercourse


• Insomnia and night sweats that disrupt sleep


• Brain fog, memory lapses, and difficulty concentrating


• Anxiety, irritability, depression, and mood swings


• Fatigue, low energy, and lack of motivation

The severity of symptoms varies widely. Lifestyle changes like stress reduction and regular exercise can provide relief. But some women may benefit from hormone therapy to smooth out transitional hormone fluctuations under a doctor's supervision.

Long-Term Health Impact

The dip in estrogen during perimenopause has implications for long-term health. Risks include:

• Osteoporosis: Estrogen plays a key role in bone health. Bone density declines accelerate during perimenopause.


• Heart disease: Lower estrogen is associated with unfavorable cholesterol changes.

However, it's important to remember risks can be reduced through healthy lifestyle choices. Stopping smoking, eating well, exercising, and limiting alcohol help protect heart and bone health during this transitional stage.

For personalized guidance navigating the changes of perimenopause, visit Optimal Hormone Health Center(). Their caring medical team provides customized hormone therapy solutions to help women minimize disruptive symptoms and promote optimal health during this transition. Schedule a consultaion to review treatment options best suited for your unique needs.