Perimenopause - Wellness Hormone Clinic

What is perimenopause?

Perimenopause refers to the transitional stage leading up to menopause when a woman's body begins shifting toward permanent infertility. This phase usually starts for women in their mid-to-late 40s, but it can begin earlier or later.

Some key things to know about the perimenopausal transition:

• It's a natural biological process marked by hormonal fluctuations and changes. Women start producing less estrogen and progesterone while follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels rise.
• The duration varies dramatically from woman to woman. Perimenopause usually lasts between 2-8 years before the final menstrual period signals the start of menopause.
• Common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, irregular periods, vaginal dryness, mood changes, trouble sleeping, and thinning hair. However, keep in mind that each woman's experience is unique.

Why does perimenopause occur?

As women age, the ovaries gradually produce fewer reproductive hormones. Negative feedback cycles in the brain also start to shift. These changes signal the body to wrap up childbearing years and eventually stop menstruation.

The fluctuation and decline of estrogen and progesterone levels during the perimenopausal transition often drive symptoms. However, this natural transition isn't a medical condition that needs treatment.

Managing perimenopause

While perimenopause itself isn't preventable, certain strategies may help you handle symptoms:

• Stay cool and layer loose clothing to help ease hot flashes
• Try yoga, meditation, or deep breathing for mood changes and sleep troubles
• Use vaginal moisturizers/lubricants for comfort during sex
• Get calcium, vitamin D, and regular exercise to support bone health
• Avoid triggers like caffeine, alcohol, stress, and spicy foods if they exacerbate your symptoms

If symptoms become truly disruptive, see your healthcare provider. They may suggest professional support like nutritional advice, counseling, herbal remedies, bioidentical hormones, or low-dose birth control pills from clinics like Wellness Hormone Clinic. The right treatment plan can help smooth the transition.

The key is remembering that perimenopause is a natural and temporary phase - not a sickness. With the right information and support, many women navigate it gracefully on their way to the freedom of menopause! Stay positive and be kind to yourself.