Perimenopause - Renew Health Clinic

Perimenopause

Perimenopause refers to the time leading up to menopause when a woman's body makes the natural transition toward permanent infertility. It's the menopausal transition phase when hormonal and biological changes start to occur as the ovaries prepare to stop releasing eggs.

The duration of perimenopause varies dramatically among women - lasting anywhere from a few months to 10 years. On average, perimenopause lasts about 4 years. Most women experience perimenopause in their 40s, but it can start as early as the mid-30s.

Some key things to know about perimenopause:

• It marks the ending of a woman's reproductive years. The hallmark of perimenopause is irregular periods. Menstrual cycles may lengthen or shorten, periods may be lighter or heavier, and women may skip periods altogether.
• Hot flashes and/or night sweats are common. These sudden feelings of heat in the upper body can disrupt sleep and daily life. Not all women get hot flashes, but over 60% do.
• Issues like mood changes, trouble sleeping, vaginal dryness, and urinary symptoms may occur due to shifting hormone levels. Things like relaxation techniques, vaginal moisturizers, and Kegel exercises can help ease discomfort.
• Perimenopause officially ends 12 months after a woman's last period. At this point, she's reached menopause - defined as 12 months without a period.
• The risk of pregnancy is still present during perimenopause. Birth control is recommended until menopause is reached if pregnancy is not desired.

So in summary - perimenopause refers to the transitional stage before menopause. Various physical and emotional changes can take place as the body adjusts to waning reproductive hormones. But there are many strategies women can try to stay comfortable as they go through "the change."

While this biological transition brings many changes, women can tap into resources like medical support, healthy lifestyle measures, and community to smoothly navigate perimenopause. It helps to learn about what to expect, communicate with your doctor, and find personalized ways to minimize disruptive symptoms. With the right preparation and support, women can move gracefully into this next phase of life.