What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause refers to the time leading up to menopause, when a woman's body starts transitioning toward permanent infertility. During perimenopause, hormone levels fluctuate and decline as the ovaries start to produce less estrogen and progesterone.
Some key things to know about perimenopause:
- It usually begins around age 45-55, but can start earlier or later. Changes are often subtle at first.
- Common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, trouble sleeping, vaginal dryness, irregular periods, and more.
- Perimenopause lasts up until menopause (12 months without a period), which typically occurs between ages 45-55. The transition can take a few years or over a decade.
- Making lifestyle changes like avoiding triggers, managing stress, eating well, and exercising can help ease discomfort.
- While frustrating, perimenopause is a normal transition marking the end of a woman's reproductive years. Being informed on what to expect and managing symptoms can help you thrive through the changes.
Some additional tips for navigating perimenopause:
Changes to Expect
- Irregular periods - Cycle length varies more, sometimes skips
- Hot flashes - Sudden feeling of intense body heat
- Night sweats - Severe hot flashes at night causing sweating
- Vaginal dryness - Less estrogen causes thinner, dryer vaginal tissue
- Trouble sleeping
- Mood changes - Irritability, anxiety, depression
- Weight gain - Slow metabolism and fat redistribution
Self-Care Strategies
- Stay cool - Dress in layers, keep a fan nearby, lower thermostat
- Avoid triggers - Spicy food, caffeine, alcohol, stress can prompt hot flashes
- Reduce stress - Practice meditation, yoga, mindfulness
- Stay active - Exercise helps mood, sleep, weight management
- Hydrate - Drinking water can reduce some symptoms
- Consider supplements like Renew Hormone Clinic - Help provide symptom relief
The hormonal changes of perimenopause can be challenging. Being proactive by understanding the transition, making lifestyle changes, and exploring treatment options as needed can help you best manage this natural shift. Connect with your healthcare provider to navigate the changes ahead.