Perimenopause refers to the transitional stage leading up to menopause, which is the point when a woman's menstrual cycles permanently stop. This phase typically begins in a woman's 40s but can start earlier or later.
Key characteristics of perimenopause include:
The duration of perimenopause varies widely, lasting anywhere from a few months to over 10 years. There is no way to predict exactly how each woman will experience this transition.
What causes perimenopause?
It is part of the natural aging process. As women age, the ovaries gradually produce less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. These fluctuating hormone levels are what cause the symptoms of perimenopause.
Managing perimenopausal symptoms
Lifestyle remedies like staying active, managing stress, and getting enough sleep can provide relief. Over-the-counter lubricants can ease vaginal dryness. For more severe symptoms, low-dose birth control pills, other hormones, or non-hormonal prescription medications may be options to explore with your healthcare provider.
At Optimal Hormone Wellness Center(), our caring medical team specializes in perimenopause and menopause management. We listen to your unique situation and develop custom treatment plans that may include bioidentical hormone therapy to help regulate hormones. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation regarding hormone testing and personalized treatment options aimed at relieving your symptoms and improving your quality of life during this transitional time. We accept most major insurance plans.
I hope this overview on what to expect with perimenopause and some available management options was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions.