Just In
- 3 hrs ago Summer Style: 6 Must-Try Colors To Stay Fashionably Cool Like B-Town Divas!
- 4 hrs ago Belgian Man Cleared Of Drunk Driving Because His Body Produces Alcohol Due To A Rare Condition
- 5 hrs ago Amitabh Bachchan's Youthful Avatar In Kalki 2898 AD Is Impressive, Check Actors Who Sported Digital De-Aging!
- 5 hrs ago Full Moon In Scorpio In April 2024: How It Will Affect 12 Zodiac Signs
Don't Miss
- News Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister And BJP's Nagpur Candidate, Faints While Addressing Election Rally In Maharashtr
- Education MP Board Class 10th, 12 Results 2024 Declared, Know How to Download the Marks Memo
- Movies Arti Singh Sangeet: Bride's 51 Year Old Bhabhi Kashmera Shah Steals Limelight With Thigh-High Slit, Check PICS
- Technology OnePlus 13 New Leak Reveals Display and Camera Details; What to Expect?
- Finance Closing Bell: Market Ends With Gains For The 4th Straight Day; Nifty Holds Above 22,400, Banks Lead Gains
- Sports SRH vs RCB Head To Head Record, Stats & Results in Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, Hyderabad Ahead of IPL 2024 Match 41
- Automobiles 2024 Kia Carens Secures 3-Star Adult & 5-Star Child Safety Ratings – Detailed Look
- Travel Mumbai Opens BMC Headquarters For Exclusive Heritage Tour
What Is Perimenopause? Signs & Symptoms, And Home Remedies
Literally, the term perimenopause means "around menopause". It is the time during which a woman's body makes the natural transition to menopause, marking the end of the reproductive years. Perimenopause is a gradual transition, and no particular test indicates what is happening to the body.
What Is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause or menopause transition is the first stage of menopause that starts 8 - 10 years before menopause. During this stage, a woman will experience some changes in the timing or heaviness in her periods because the ovaries will stop releasing eggs, and they gradually begin to produce less oestrogen [1][2]. As the oestrogen hormones rise and fall, periods grow longer or shorter, and women experience menopause-like symptoms [3].
Women start perimenopause at different ages, some notice the signs in the 40s, but for some women, the changes are evident as early as their 30s. Perimenopause is a natural part of the ageing process. It can last for four years on average, but sometimes only a few months [4].
Does A Woman's Sex Drive Decrease With Age? What Experts Have To Say
When a woman starts perimenopause, the levels of oestrogen will rise and fall unevenly, the menstrual cycles may lengthen or shorten, and one may even begin having menstrual cycles in which your ovaries do not release an egg.
During
the
final
stages
of
perimenopause,
the
female
body
produces
less
and
less
oestrogen.
Once
a
woman
goes
through
the
12
consecutive
months
without
menstruating,
that
means
you
have
officially
reached
menopause,
and
the
perimenopause
period
is
over
[5].
Let's take a look at the signs and symptoms of perimenopause.
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Perimenopause?
When a woman goes through the menopausal transition, there will be some subtle and evident bodily changes. The first sign of perimenopause is typically a disruption of your menstrual cycle. A woman in this stage can experience the following signs and symptoms:
1. Hot flashes
Hot flashes are common during perimenopause, and the intensity, length and frequency can vary from one woman to the other [6]. Hot flashes can be uncomfortable and come as a sudden wave of heat or warmth often accompanied by sweating, reddening of the skin, and rapid heartbeat. Hot flashes can last from 1 min to 5 mins and are usually followed by a cold chill [7]. About 80 per cent of women will experience some form of a hot flash during perimenopause.
2. Night sweats & sleeping problems
Night sweats are similar to hot flashes but happen during the night [8]. Night sweats can interfere with sleep and cause sleep disturbances. However, in some cases, the cause of sleep disturbances is not understood.
11 Home Remedies To Reduce Body Heat Quickly
3. Mood changes
Mood swings and irritability could be due to the sleep disruption associated with hot flashes. In some cases, the mood changes may also be caused by factors not related to the hormonal changes of perimenopause. There is also a risk of depression [9].
4. Irregular periods
When the ovulation is no longer normal, the length of time between periods may be longer or shorter; the flow can be heavy. At times, you may not even get periods some months [10]. If your period days changes to seven days or more, you may be in early perimenopause. If you have a space of 60 days or more between periods, you are in late perimenopause [11].
5. Lack of sexual desire
A majority of women report having limited sexual arousal or even none. However, it is not the case for everyone because, sexual health experts point out that if you had satisfactory sexual intimacy before menopause, it would likely continue [12].
Testosterone May Help Improve Women's Sexual Life After Menopause
6. Loss of bone
During perimenopause, as the oestrogen levels decrease, your bone density will also reduce. Perimenopause can increase your risk of developing osteoporosis [13].
7. Fluctuating cholesterol levels
A decline in the oestrogen levels may lead to fluctuations in your blood cholesterol levels, including an increase in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart diseases [14]. In some women, the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol decreases, increasing the risk of heart disease [15].
8. Vaginal problems
When the oestrogen levels reduce, there are chances of the vaginal tissues losing lubrication and elasticity, making intercourse painful (another reason for reduced sex drive in women) [16]. Low oestrogen levels increase the risk of urinary or vaginal infections and urinary incontinence.
Other signs and symptoms of perimenopause are as follows:
•
Worse
premenstrual
syndrome
(PMS)
before
periods
[17]
•
Breast
tenderness
•
Weight
gain
•
Hair
changes
•
Heart
palpitations
[18]
•
Headaches
•
Concentration
difficulties
•
Forgetfulness
[19]
•
Muscle
aches
•
Urinary
tract
infections
(UTIs)
What Are The Risk Factors For Perimenopause?
•
Smoking:
Women
who
smoke
have
perimenopause
one
to
two
years
earlier
than
women
who
does
not
smoke.
•
Cancer
treatment:
Chemotherapy
or
pelvic
radiation
therapy
has
been
associated
with
perimenopause.
•
Family
history:
Women
with
a
family
history
of
perimenopause
are
more
likely
to
have
early
menopause.
•
Hysterectomy:
A
hysterectomy
is
an
operation
to
remove
the
uterus;
in
most
cases,
this
does
not
trigger
perimenopause/menopause.
However,
there
are
chances
that
the
surgery
can
cause
menopause
to
occur
earlier
than
average.
Are You DOOMSCROLLING For Information? It Can Impact Your Mental And Physical Health!
Should I Be Concerned About My Perimenopausal Symptoms?
If any of the following applies to you, you must consult a doctor or a gynaecologist immediately.
•
Your
periods
last
several
days
longer
than
usual.
•
Your
periods
are
extremely
heavy,
or
they
have
blood
clots.
•
You
spot
between
periods.
•
You
have
spotting
after
sex.
•
Your
periods
happen
closer
together
(small
intervals).
Some of the common causes of abnormal or excessive bleeding during perimenopause include hormone problems, birth control pills, pregnancy, fibroids, blood clotting problems or, in some rare cases, cancer [20].
How To Manage Perimenopause Signs And Symptoms?
Many women get relief from perimenopause symptoms through lifestyle changes and /or prescription and over the counter (OTC) treatments [21]. In addition, hormone therapy, vaginal oestrogen treatments and antidepressants can help manage perimenopausal symptoms.
• Hormone therapy (which comes in pill, skin patch, gel or cream form) can help in relieving perimenopausal hot flashes and night sweats. The doctor may recommend oestrogen, depending on your personal and family medical history. Systemic oestrogen can help prevent bone loss; a common symptom associated with perimenopause [22]. For some, the hormone progestin will be required in addition to oestrogen.
• Antidepressants may be prescribed for mood disorders, and certain antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) might reduce hot flashes [23]. An antidepressant for management of hot flashes can be useful for women who cannot take oestrogen.
• Vaginal oestrogen can help treat vaginal dryness; a common symptom associated with perimenopause [24]. The oestrogen can be administered directly to the vagina using a vaginal tablet, ring or cream, which then releases a small amount of oestrogen to be absorbed by the vaginal tissue.
Home Remedies And Lifestyle Changes For Perimenopause Signs And Symptoms
Adopting healthy lifestyle choices can help manage the symptoms of perimenopause. As studies point out, perimenopause can be managed with some home remedies and lifestyle changes.
Lifestyle changes for perimenopause
•
Try
to
get
enough
sleep
(8
hrs)
and
maintain
a
consistent
sleep
schedule.
•
Avoid
caffeine
(coffee,
tea,
etc.)
before
going
to
bed.
•
Avoid
drinking
too
much
alcohol,
as
it
can
interrupt
sleep.
•
Be
active,
as
regular
exercise
can
help
prevent
weight
gain,
improve
your
sleep
and
your
mood.
Try
to
exercise
for
30
mins
every
day,
and
if
you
can,
squeeze
in
more
time
for
exercise
on
the
weekends.
•
Avoid
doing
any
physical
activity
before
going
to
bed
[25].
•
Practice
stress
reduction
techniques
regularly.
You
can
try
meditation
or
yoga
to
help
promote
relaxation
and
good
health
and
ease
the
symptoms.
•
Follow
a
healthy
diet
that
is
a
low-fat,
high-fibre
diet
that
is
rich
in
fruits,
vegetables
and
whole
grains.
Include
calcium-rich
and
vitamin
D
foods
[26].
•
Use
over
the
counter,
water-based
vaginal
lubricants
or
moisturisers
to
ease
the
vaginal
discomfort.
Here is a list of home remedies that can help manage perimenopause symptoms.
•
Ginseng:
The
root
of
this
herb
can
help
soothe
hot
flashes
and
improve
the
quality
and
duration
of
your
sleep.
Ginseng
can
be
consumed
as
a
tea
or
taken
in
a
capsule
form.
•
Soy:
Including
more
soy-products
in
your
diet
can
help
ease
perimenopause
symptoms
[27].
Soy
contains
a
plant-based
oestrogen
called
isoflavones
that
can
help
ease
hot
flashes,
night
sweats,
and
even
vaginal
dryness.
You
can
get
the
benefits
of
soy
from
soybeans,
edamame,
tofu,
and
soy
milk.
•
Vitamin
D:
As
mentioned
before,
with
a
lack
of
oestrogen
in
your
body,
you
are
at
an
increased
risk
of
developing
osteoporosis.
This
can
be
avoided
by
taking
a
vitamin
D
supplement,
which
is
also
beneficial
for
boosting
your
mood
[28].
•
Wild
yam:
Wild
yam
has
been
shown
to
have
potential
estrogenic
activity,
while
it
is
not
as
effective
as
other
remedies
for
perimenopause,
researchers
say
that
wild
yam
supplements
may
mimic
the
effects
of
oestrogen
on
your
body
[29].
•
Some
of
the
other
less
common
home
remedies
for
perimenopause
are
black
cohosh
(North
American
herb),
French
maritime
pine
bark
extract
and
dong
Quai
(Chinese
herb).
The Difference Between Premenopause And Perimenopause
Premenopause and perimenopause are often confused with each other.
Premenopause is when you have no symptoms of perimenopause or menopause. During this, you will still have periods (irregular/regular) and is considered to be in the reproductive years. When a woman reaches the premenopause stage, there will be no noticeable changes in your body [30].
Perimenopause is when you start to experience symptoms of menopause, such as changes in your period cycle, hot flashes, sleep disturbances and mood swings.
How Long Does Perimenopause Last?
Normally, the average length of perimenopause is four years, but for some women, this stage may last only a few months or continue for ten years. And perimenopause ends when a woman has gone 12 months without having her period.
On A Final Note…
Be aware of any potential interactions of herbal supplements before you try any remedy. Perimenopause is nothing but a natural process, where your body is preparing you to the next stage in your life. It is completely normal and natural. Talk to you gynaecologist if you have any doubts or concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the first sign of perimenopause?
A. Irregular periods are often the first noticeable symptom for a woman in perimenopause.
Q. What can I expect during perimenopause?
A. Perimenopause can last anywhere from one to 10 years. During this time, the ovaries can function erratically, and the hormonal fluctuations may bring about a range of changes, including hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, and heavy menstrual bleeding.
Q. How does perimenopause make you feel?
A. Mood changes are common and often occur around the time of perimenopause and menopause when the hormone levels are decreasing. You may experience mood swings, either high or low mood, or anxiety, crying spells and irritability.
Q. What age is normal for perimenopause?
A. The average age of menopause is 51, and perimenopause symptoms typically begin about four years before your final period. Most women start to notice perimenopause symptoms in their 40s.
Q. Do breasts grow during perimenopause?
A. Yes, it is common for breasts to get bigger or smaller or to change in shape during perimenopause as the hormonal fluctuations are dramatic and unpredictable.
Q. Can a woman have an orgasm after menopause?
A. Although perimenopause-related hormone changes and vaginal changes can dampen arousal around midlife can also affect women's enjoyment of sex and the ability to achieve orgasm, there are ways you can get out of it.
Q. What vitamins should I take for perimenopause?
A. You can take calcium and vitamin D supplements.
Q. How does perimenopause affect periods?
A. Perimenopause can make your periods suddenly irregular. When you are in perimenopause, hormone changes become more erratic, leading to unpredictable bleeding patterns.
Q. How do I get rid of perimenopause belly?
A. Regular exercise and a watchful diet can help reduce perimenopause belly. Your routine can include aerobic exercises, like swimming, walking, bicycling, and running, as well as resistance or strength training.
Q. Can you lose weight during perimenopause?
A. Yes. While it can take longer to lose weight, it is not impossible.
Q. Can perimenopause make you feel crazy?
A. The hormonal changes of menopause, combined with its side effects, can have a significant impact on your mood. It is completely normal to experience mood swings, sadness, and even rage during this time.
Q. Does perimenopause make you tired?
A. Yes, fatigue during perimenopause due to the changes in the levels of hormones like oestrogen, progesterone, thyroid hormones, and adrenal hormones can make you feel extremely tired.
Q. Does perimenopause cause weight gain?
A. The hormonal changes of menopause might cause weight gain around your abdomen than around your hips and thighs. However, perimenopause alone is not the cause for the weight gain, but lifestyle and genetic factors as well.
- healthHow Can Women Improve Their Quality Of Life During Perimenopause And Menopausal State? Expert Opinion
- healthRoller Coaster Effect In Diabetes: Why Does My Blood Sugar Level Go Up And Down, How To Stop It
- wellnessStomach Cancer Awareness Month: Is This Daily Habit A Cancer Trigger?
- healthIs Office Stress Messing With Your Health? 5 Red Flags You Can't Ignore!
- healthMan Dies After Eating Pasta Kept Outside Fridge: What Is Fried Rice Syndrome?
- pregnancy parentingDown Syndrome Awareness Month: Tests To Check For Down Syndrome Risk During Pregnancy
- wellnessTry These 5 Hot Beverages For Relief From Common Cold
- healthWorld Boss Day 2023: Is Your Boss Gaslighting You? Know The Signs
- pregnancy parentingInternational AAC Awareness Month: Early Signs Of Communication Issues In Kids
- healthThe Truth about Diabetes in India Unveiled
- pregnancy parenting1 In 5 Young People (age 13-18) Will Develop A Mental Illness In Their Lifetime; Know Warning Signs
- healthWorld Alzheimer's Day 2023: What Are The 7 Alzheimer's Disease Warning Signs? Details Inside