Understanding Perimenopause: The Menopause Transition

Perimenopause, often referred to as the menopause transition, is a significant phase in a woman’s life when her body begins to produce fewer female hormones and struggles to release an egg each month. This phase starts when a woman first notices menopausal symptoms and may detect changes in her menstrual cycle. Perimenopause ends with the final menstrual period (the menopause), and once periods have stopped for a full 12 months, this stage is known as post-menopause.

What Age Does Perimenopause Occur?

Perimenopausal symptoms are common from your 40s onwards. It’s possible to experience an early or premature menopause, which means symptoms can start at a much younger age. The age of menopause can run in families, so knowing when your mother or sisters began experiencing symptoms can be helpful. For most women, symptoms last around eight years, although this can be shorter or longer—it varies for everyone.

Perimenopausal Symptoms

During perimenopause, menstrual cycles can become irregular, with periods either closer together or further apart. They may also become lighter or heavier. Gradually, the gaps between periods get longer until they stop altogether. Most women will experience menopausal symptoms, but the severity and variety can differ widely. Some may have few or mild symptoms, while others may experience severe symptoms that significantly impact daily life. Symptoms can include hot flushes, low mood, anxiety, tearfulness, brain fog, joint pains, headaches, skin changes, fatigue, and vaginal issues. Some women may start experiencing symptoms like migraines, irritability, and low mood, especially around the time of their period, even without noticeable irregularities in their cycles.

Due to fluctuating hormone levels, symptoms can vary from month to month and even day to day, leading to confusion about what is happening. Common early symptoms include increased anxiety, changes in sleep quality, or worsening PMS. If you are experiencing symptoms and feel unsure about what is going on you might find it helpful to complete this symptom checker for some personalised advice.

Impact On Long Term Health

Managing these symptoms can be challenging, but it’s important to also be aware of the increased risks of chronic health conditions such as heart disease and osteoporosis (thinning of the bones) due to hormonal changes. Lack of oestrogen also affects the condition of vaginal and bladder tissues. Considering these issues is crucial, as most women will spend a third of their life post-menopause. How you manage your menopause can help you live a healthy life post-menopause.

Support and Advice

It’s essential to seek healthcare advice on menopause treatments to make the best decisions for your health. Dr. Forrester-Paton is experienced in providing care and advice to women experiencing perimenopause. She can discuss treatments with you and work together to explore lifestyle changes that can help alleviate symptoms and protect your long-term health.