Perimenopause, Perimenopause Causes, Symptoms and treatment, Perimenopause and pregnancy
Perimenopause is defined as the period from normal menstrual periods to no periods at all. The transition can, and usually does, take up to ten years. During the perimenopausal transition you may experience a combination of PMS and menopausal symptoms or no symptoms at all. Perimenopause is a time where hormone levels widely fluctuate and render the hallmark traits such as hot flashes, as very noticeable.
The term “premenopause” is often used ambiguously to refer to the 1 or 2 years immediately before the menopause or to refer to the whole of the reproductive period prior to the menopause. The group recommended that the term be used consistently in the latter sense to encompass the entire reproductive period up to the FMP.
Perimenopause Facts and Information
Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause (when you have not had your period for twelve months). During perimenopause, your body starts making less of certain hormones (estrogen and progesterone), and you begin to lose the ability to become pregnant.
During perimenopause and in the years after menopause, women may experience a thinning of the lining of the urethra and a weakening of the pelvic muscles.
Symptom of Perimenopause
When hormonal changes begin within a woman's body and "symptoms" are most likely to be experienced. Perimenopausal changes can result in a great variety of signs and symptoms including
- Reduced fertility
- Irregular periods
- Hot flashes
- Vaginal dryness and irritation
- Urinary tract symptoms
No woman can predict what symptoms she will experience, or how severely. Therefore, the management of perimenopause needs to be as personalized as the symptoms themselves.
Other symptoms of Perimenopause
- Headaches
- Occasional sleeplessness
- Mood swings
Causes of Perimenopause
Perimenopause is not a time to grow lax or careless with birth control. At this stage in your life, pregnancy is a complicated health challenge and should be a conscious decision.
Fluctuating estrogen levels can cause circulation changes in a woman's body, and these changes often manifest in hot flashes, which are among the most common symptoms of perimenopause.
How long does perimenopause last?
Perimenopause can start as early as age 35. It can last just a few months or a few years. There is no way to tell in advance how long it will last OR how long it will take you to go through it.
Pre Menopause Information
Menopause Information
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