Perimenopause refers to the transitional period leading up to menopause, which is the point when a woman's menstrual cycles stop permanently. Perimenopause typically begins for women in their late 40s, but can start as early as the late 30s or early 40s.
During perimenopause, a woman's body begins the shift toward permanent infertility, marking the end of her reproductive years. This transition is driven by natural declines and fluctuations in the hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Some key things to know about perimenopause:
- It lasts an average of 4 years, but can range from 2 to 8 years
- Common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, irregular periods, vaginal dryness, trouble sleeping, and mood changes
- Hormone levels rise and fall unevenly, which leads to menstrual irregularity
- The risk of pregnancy is reduced but not eliminated
- Most women reach menopause around age 51 on average
Women often have many questions about what to expect during the perimenopausal transition.
Here are answers to some common questions:
How do I know if I'm perimenopausal? Track your menstrual cycle. If you have irregular cycles and inconsistent flow, you may be perimenopausal. Pay attention to other symptoms as well - hot flashes, trouble sleeping, and vaginal changes also signal the transition.
What causes perimenopause? The ovaries begin to run out of viable eggs during the late 30s and 40s, disrupting ovarian function and hormone production. Increased follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is an early sign that the ovaries are responding differently.
How long will perimenopause symptoms last? It varies! Some women have symptoms for the full 4 years of perimenopause or longer. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help minimize bothersome symptoms.
What are the health risks? Changing hormones can increase risks of heart disease, osteoporosis, and urinary issues if left unmanaged. Work with your healthcare provider on symptom relief options and health screening.
The perimenopausal transition marks a new reproductive phase for women. While challenging at times, this natural shift can be managed by working closely with your doctor, pursuing healthy lifestyle strategies, and leveraging social support. With the right information and resources from places like Vibrant Life, women can navigate perimenopause smoothly on the path to menopause.