Menopause occurs when your reproductive hormones decline in your body. It is the point at which your body stops producing eggs, and the menstruation cycle stops. Different women may experience menopause at ages 40 and 50, but 51 is the average age for menopause in the US. You may be in menopause if it’s been a year since you received your period. The Upper East Side perimenopause specialist can help you figure through the perimenopause and menopause stages. Here is detailed information on what to expect during perimenopause.
How does perimenopause occur?
Menopause does not happen overnight; rather, it is a gradual process that may take even years. Perimenopause is the period that transition to menopause. You may have heard about menopause, but what is perimenopause? It is the stage just before menopause. Usually, it may not be clear or straightforward. You may begin experiencing different changes, such as irregular periods now and then, as the estrogen and progesterone levels decline. Changes in your menstrual periods may be the first sign you notice in perimenopause. The periods may become longer or shorter, alternating between months. Please note that it’s possible to become pregnant during perimenopause. Perimenopause may start from the 30s to the 40s, lasting up to ten years. The average age for menopause is usually 51. Hence you may start your perimenopause in your 40s.
What symptoms may you experience during perimenopause?
The hormone fluctuations during perimenopause may lead to some symptoms. Usually, perimenopause symptoms result from hormones estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone hormone changes. You may encounter the following during the perimenopause stage.
Mood changes
You may experience irritability, mood swings, and an elevated risk of depression. Mood changes may result from hot flashes, sleep disruption, or other non-hormonal changes during perimenopause.
Irregular periods
Changes in your periods may indicate perimenopause. Your periods may come earlier or later, lighter or heavy, and even miss some months. You may be in perimenopause if you experience 60 days or more between periods.
Vaginal and bladder problems
A decline in estrogen levels may cause your vaginal tissues to lose elasticity and lubrication, causing pain during intercourse. Decreased estrogen levels may increase your risk for urinary and vaginal infections.
Hot flashes and sleep problems
You will likely encounter hot flashes during perimenopause, which may affect your sleep.
Changes in sexual function and decreased fertility
Your sexual desire and arousal may change during perimenopause. Besides, it may be difficult to conceive as you approach menopause. However, there may be a chance of pregnancy if you have periods.
Loss of bone
Low levels of Strogen may increase your risk for osteoporosis, a condition that weakens your bones.
In addition, you may experience weight gain and skin changes. Perimenopause may disrupt your daily living, interfering with your life quality. However, you may also encounter less pain and cramping during periods. Walking with a health provider during perimenopause can make your life easier and better. A health provider may recommend lifestyle changes and treatments to improve your symptoms and make your transition to menopause less severe. Call TaraMD today to schedule your consultation.
