Are you a woman in your 40s experiencing irregular periods, mood swings, and hot flashes? You may be going through perimenopause, the transition phase before menopause.
Perimenopause typically begins several years before menopause, when the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen. It usually starts in a woman's 40s, but can begin in the 30s or even earlier. Perimenopause lasts up until menopause, the point when the ovaries stop releasing eggs.
Common signs and symptoms of perimenopause include:
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Irregular periods | Periods becoming more or less frequent, heavier or lighter |
| Hot flashes and sleep problems | Sudden feelings of heat, often with sweating and flushing |
| Mood changes | Mood swings, irritability, depression |
| Vaginal and bladder problems | Vaginal dryness, urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence |
| Decreasing fertility | As ovulation becomes irregular, ability to conceive decreases |
| Changes in sexual function | Vaginal dryness can cause discomfort and lower desire |
| Loss of bone | Declining estrogen can cause loss of bone density |
| Changing cholesterol levels | Declining estrogen can lead to unfavorable cholesterol changes |
The length of perimenopause varies for each woman. On average, women experience perimenopause for about 4 years before reaching menopause. But some women may only be in this stage for a few months, while others will be in perimenopause for more than 4 years.
Tips for Managing Perimenopause Symptoms
While perimenopause is a natural stage of life, it can come with unwanted symptoms. The good news is there are things you can do to feel better:
| Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Eat a balanced diet | Supports overall health |
| Exercise regularly | Helps manage stress, weight and sleep |
| Get enough sleep | Important for energy, mood and health |
| Don't smoke | Smoking worsens hot flashes |
| Limit alcohol | Alcohol can trigger hot flashes and aggravate mood swings |
| Try relaxation techniques | Deep breathing, yoga, massage may reduce stress |
| Communicate with loved ones | Express feelings to get understanding and support |
| Consult your doctor | Discuss treatment options if symptoms interfere with life |
When to Seek Medical Advice
While most women don't need treatment for perimenopause, see your doctor if:
At Rejuvenate Wellness, our experienced healthcare providers can help diagnose perimenopause and recommend personalized treatment options to reduce bothersome symptoms and help you feel your best during this transition. Hormone therapy and other medications may be prescribed to help ease hot flashes, sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness and bone loss. We're here to support you on your journey through perimenopause and menopause.
In conclusion, perimenopause is a normal stage of a woman's reproductive life cycle. While it can bring unwanted symptoms, there are fortunately many healthy lifestyle and medical treatments available to relieve discomfort and protect long-term health. Staying informed about what to expect and proactively caring for yourself can help you navigate this transition with greater ease and wellbeing.