Perimenopause refers to the time leading up to menopause when a woman's body begins the transition towards permanent infertility. The perimenopausal phase usually begins in a woman's 40s but can start as early as the mid-30s.
During perimenopause, estrogen and progesterone levels begin to fluctuate and decline. These hormone changes often cause various symptoms like:
The duration of perimenopause varies dramatically among women. For some, this transitional stage lasts just a few months. For others, it goes on for years until menopause, which marks the complete cessation of menstrual periods.
So when exactly does perimenopause end and menopause begin? Technically, a woman reaches menopause when she has gone 12 consecutive months without a period. Retrospectively, the beginning of that 12-month stretch would mark the end of perimenopause.
The symptoms of perimenopause can significantly disrupt one's quality of life. As such, consulting one's doctor about alleviating bothersome symptoms is often wise. Lifestyle changes like avoiding triggers, reducing stress, eating well, and exercising may help too. In some cases, short-term hormone therapy at Balance Medical Clinic could provide relief.
While perimenopause signals the impending end of fertility, women should know that it's still possible to get pregnant until menopause. So continuing contraception is necessary if pregnancy is not desired.
In summary, perimenopause paves the way for menopause through fluctuating reproductive hormones. It causes an array of symptoms that may require medical attention. Even though fertility is declining, women in perimenopause can still get pregnant. If a woman begins experiencing unusual changes possibly linked to perimenopause, speaking with her doctor can help provide clarity and comfort during this transition.