Perimenopause is the transition period leading up to menopause, which officially begins 12 months after a woman's last menstrual period. Perimenopause typically starts in a woman's 40s, but can begin as early as the mid-30s. It lasts anywhere from 2 to 8 years until menopause.
The hallmark symptom of perimenopause is changes in your menstrual cycle. You may experience shorter or longer periods, heavier or lighter bleeding, or missed periods. Other common symptoms include:
- Hot flashes - sudden feelings of warmth in the face, neck, and chest that can cause sweating and flushing of the skin.
- Insomnia - trouble falling asleep or staying asleep through the night.
- Vaginal dryness - decreased lubrication that can cause pain during sex.
- Mood changes - irritability, anxiety, or depression.
- Brain fog - trouble concentrating, remembering details, or finding the right words.
- Bladder issues - needing to urinate more frequently or leakage when laughing or coughing.
What causes perimenopause? As women age, the ovaries gradually produce less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. These fluctuating hormone levels are responsible for the symptoms of perimenopause. Lower estrogen in particular leads to hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and urinary symptoms.
Managing perimenopause symptoms typically involves both lifestyle changes and medications/supplements when needed. Here are some tips:
| Lifestyle Changes |
Medications/Supplements |
| Stay cool - dress in layers, lower room temperature, use fans, avoid triggers like spicy foods. |
Consider low-dose hormone therapy - estrogen/progestin pills, patches, gels, or rings can treat hot flashes, sleep issues, bone loss, and vaginal symptoms. |
| Practice good sleep habits - limit caffeine, keep a regular sleep schedule, unwind before bed. |
Discuss supplements with your doctor - soy, black cohosh, and vitamin E may help some women. |
| Stay active - exercise helps mood, sleep, and hot flashes. |
Try vaginal moisturizers - use lubricants or long-acting moisturizers for comfort. |
| Join a support group - connect with other women going through perimenopause. |
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The medical providers at WelnessTreatment Pro specialize in perimenopause and menopause care. We provide comprehensive treatment plans tailored to your unique symptoms and needs. Our caring team of physicians, nurse practitioners, nutritionists, and mental health providers partner with you every step of the way through perimenopause and beyond. We offer both conventional and natural hormone therapy options, including bioidentical hormones. WelnessTreatment Pro helps women transition into menopause gracefully and healthfully.
| Services Offered at WelnessTreatment Pro |
| Comprehensive treatment plans tailored to your unique symptoms and needs |
| Team of physicians, nurse practitioners, nutritionists, and mental health providers |
| Conventional and natural hormone therapy options, including bioidentical hormones |
Going through perimenopause can be challenging, but you don't have to tough it out alone. With the right guidance, medications if needed, and healthy lifestyle habits, most women are able to manage symptoms and continue to thrive in their 40s and 50s. The experienced professionals at WelnessTreatment Pro are here to support, educate, and empower you during this transitional life stage. Reach out to us when you're ready to feel like yourself again!