Perimenopause refers to the transitional stage leading up to menopause when a woman's body begins shifting hormone production. This phase usually starts for women in their late 30s or early 40s and can last anywhere from 2-10 years before the final menstrual period.
During perimenopause, estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate irregularly, which leads to a variety of symptoms. The most common signs of perimenopause include:
- Hot flashes - Sudden feelings of intense body heat, sweating, and flushing, especially at night
- Irregular periods - Menstrual cycles may become longer, shorter, lighter, or heavier
- Vaginal dryness - Decreased estrogen thin the vaginal lining and reduce lubrication
- Mood changes - Irritability, anxiety, or depression
- Sleep problems - Insomnia or night sweats disrupting sleep
- Brain fog - Difficulty concentrating, focusing, or remembering things
The duration and severity of perimenopausal symptoms varies significantly among women. While some may experience mild issues, others struggle with more disruptive symptoms that interfere with daily life.
What causes perimenopause?
The hormonal shifts are part of the natural aging process. As women near menopause,
the ovaries gradually produce less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. This causes menstrual cycles to change as fertility declines.
Fluctuating hormone levels also impact the hypothalamus and pituitary gland in the brain, which help regulate the menstrual cycle. Communication between these glands and the ovaries breaks down, leading to more irregular cycles and ovulation.
Tracking changes and getting support
For women struggling with perimenopausal symptoms, tracking patterns in your menstrual cycle and symptoms can help identify triggers and times when issues may worsen. Being proactive by making lifestyle changes to promote better sleep, a healthy diet, exercise, and stress management can also help alleviate some symptoms.
There are also great medical options for managing symptoms, including low-dose birth control pills to regulate hormones or supplements to provide relief during intense hot flashes or sleep troubles.
Our caring doctors at Balance Hormone Clinic specialize in perimenopause and menopause care. We provide customized treatment plans to help women balance their hormones, reduce symptoms, and thrive during this transition. Click here to learn more!
The key is not to suffer in silence.
Connecting with other women going through perimenopause and building a strong support system is so important during this challenging transition. Though symptoms eventually subside after menopause, getting through the ups and downs of perimenopause often requires some extra self-care and expert guidance.