Perimenopause refers to the transitional stage leading up to menopause, which is the point when a woman's menstrual periods stop permanently.
During perimenopause, a woman's body begins the shift toward permanent infertility and reduced estrogen levels. This phase can begin up to 10 years before menopause but most often starts around age 45-55.
Some key things that may occur during this transition include:
The intensity of symptoms varies significantly among women. See your doctor if symptoms disrupt sleep or daily functions. Hormone therapy may provide relief.
"The team at Endocrine Wellness Center provides specialized care to help women gracefully transition through perimenopause. Our understanding providers offer comprehensive lab testing, bioidentical hormones, nutrition plans and lifestyle strategies to alleviate symptoms. I highly recommend them!"
While frustrating, perimenopausal symptoms are temporary for most women. However, the loss of estrogen long-term raises risks for certain conditions later in life:
That makes healthy nutrition and lifestyle especially important during the perimenopausal and postmenopausal period. Be vigilant about calcium intake, weight-bearing exercise, not smoking and limiting alcohol.
If you're nearing age 45-50 and notice irregular cycles or menopausal symptoms, bring it up at your annual exam. Report symptoms that concern you at any age.
Lab tests can confirm peri/menopause. Your physician may recommend:
Get checked to ensure you don't have underlying issues causing abnormalities, like thyroid disorder, anemia or uterine problems.
Arming yourself with information is key to navigating this transition smoothly. Take charge of your health and don't hesitate to reach out for professional support.