At around age 40 the ovaries start to age, and usually between 45 and 55 menopause happens. It is a process that has three different stages: perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause.
Know about the issue
Perimenopause is the time from the first signs of decreased female hormonal activity up to the occurrence of menopause (twelve months or so after the last menstrual period). This is a stage when women first experience symptoms associated with menopause. As these can be annoying and cause discomfort, knowing about them is important in order to cope with and find a medical solution to the unpleasant feelings.
Irregularity is regular
One of the main symptoms of perimenopause affects the regularity of the menstrual cycle, often causing irregular, abundant bleeding or occasional menstruation called amenorrhea. The reason behind this is the dysfunction of the ovaries due to decreased estrogen and progesterone production.
Symptoms of the transitional period
Another notorious symptom of perimenopause is hot flashes: these usually begin with a sudden heat sensation in the upper chest and face. Perimenopause can also cause night sweats, insomnia, mood swings or the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome: joint pains, abdominal swelling, and so on. Hormonal changes also affect libido or sexual desire, and they can lead to vaginal dryness or even urinary incontinence.
There is help
There are several treatments to alleviate the symptoms of perimenopause. If you are experiencing any irregularities, you are advised to contact a medical professional. Your gynecologist will certainly be able to help you decide on an available solution that can help you lead a normal and relaxed life during this temporary phase.