Perimenopause refers to the transitional stage leading up to menopause, which is the point when a woman's menstrual cycles permanently stop. On average, perimenopause begins between the ages of 45-55 years old. The hallmark sign is changes in your menstrual cycle length and flow.
During the perimenopausal transition, levels of estrogen and progesterone fluctuate irregularly. This leads to common symptoms like:
The duration of perimenopause varies woman to woman. It starts when the body begins making shifts in reproductive hormone levels and ends after 12 consecutive months without a period, when menopause is reached.
Diagnosing perimenopause involves reviewing your symptoms and the pattern of your menstrual cycle over the last 12 months. Blood tests can also check levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol.
There are many ways to find relief during the perimenopausal transition:
The medical providers at Renewed Balance Clinic specialize in perimenopause and menopause management. We provide customized bioidentical hormone therapy to help treat symptoms. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
Overall, perimenopause is a natural transition marking the ending of a woman's reproductive years. While frustrating at times, this stage typically lasts 2-8 years. With proper support, women can navigate "the change" smoothly while embracing the new chapter ahead!