Perimenopause can last anywhere from two to eight years, with the average being four years. During this time, a woman’s menstrual cycle will become irregular, with periods coming closer together or further apart. Eventually, the periods will stop altogether, which is the beginning of menopause.
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is a transitional stage of a woman’s life that occurs before menopause. The word ‘perimenopause’ comes from the Greek words peri (around) and menopause (cessation of the menstrual cycle). It usually begins in the late 40s (although it can begin earlier for some women) or early 50s and can last for several years. During this time, a woman’s body begins to produce less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone and many women experience a variety of physical and emotional symptoms as their hormones begin to shift.
Symptoms of Perimenopause
The symptoms of perimenopause can vary from woman to woman. Some of the most common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and changes to the menstrual cycle. In addition, some women may experience vaginal dryness, sleep disturbances, and urinary incontinence. The severity and duration of these symptoms can vary greatly. Some women may experience very mild symptoms while others may find them more disruptive.
Perimenopause can last anywhere from two to eight years, with the average being four years. During this time, a woman’s menstrual cycle will become irregular, with periods coming closer together or further apart. Eventually, the periods will stop altogether, which is the beginning of menopause.
While perimenopause can be a confusing and stressful time, it is important to understand what is happening to your body and how to manage your symptoms.
Felicity, 46, London
"I'm grateful for the time I am currently in my life- perimenopause. It's a time of change and growth, a time when I'm becoming an even more confident and powerful version of myself. It's an exciting time as my body and mind take new and different directions, and I wander off the beaten path.Yes, there may be days that are filled with hot flashes, night sweats, and lower energy levels, but that doesn't discourage me. Instead, I take strides to understand the new terrain I'm navigating and think positively of the learning experiences that come with it.I embrace the days where I have more energy and fewer hot flashes and am happy for the changes that allow me to experience happier moments, explore new hobbies, and feel a renewed spirit.Most of all, I'm thankful for the opportunity to come to terms and gain a deeper understanding of my body and the many stages of life. This acceptance has allowed me to create a healthier and more balanced life – one that I feel proud to take part in. Perimenopause is a journey of growth, and I'm grateful to be on it."
The good news is that there are a number of ways to manage the symptoms of perimenopause. One of the best ways to cope with the symptom of perimenopause is to make lifestyle changes. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep can all help to reduce the severity of the symptoms. In addition, avoiding alcohol and smoking, as well as managing stress levels can also be beneficial. It can also be helpful to talk to your doctor about hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This treatment can help to reduce the symptoms of perimenopause by replacing the hormones that are no longer being produced by the body. HRT can be taken orally, as a patch, or as an injection.
Treatment Options
There are a variety of treatment options available for women experiencing the symptoms of perimenopause. These include hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle changes, and herbal remedies.
Hormone replacement therapy is a common treatment for perimenopause. This involves taking hormones such as estrogen and progesterone to help regulate a woman’s menstrual cycle and reduce the symptoms of perimenopause. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy with your doctor before starting treatment.
Lifestyle changes can also help reduce the symptoms of perimenopause. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress. Women should also avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
Herbal remedies are another option for treating the symptoms of perimenopause. These include black cohosh, dong quai, and chasteberry. It is important to discuss the use of herbal remedies with your doctor before taking them.
It is important to remember that the symptoms of perimenopause are natural and normal. While they can be disruptive, they are also a sign that the body is adjusting to the changes that are taking place. By learning more about the symptoms, causes, and treatments, women can better prepare themselves for this stage of life and with the right support and resources, many women are able to make this time a positive and rewarding experience.