What Is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transitional period leading up to menopause. It can last for several years.
One of the first signs is often a change in the menstrual cycle. Periods may become more or less frequent, heavier or lighter, and the length of the cycle may change.
Importantly, pregnancy is still possible during perimenopause, so contraception should be continued if pregnancy is not desired.
What Symptoms Can Occur?
The menopausal transition is different for every woman. Some women experience very few symptoms, while for others, symptoms can significantly affect sleep, work, sexual health, and overall well-being.
Common symptoms include:
· hot flashes and night sweats;
· sleep problems or insomnia;
· changes in the menstrual cycle;
· vaginal dryness and discomfort;
· pain during sexual intercourse;
· urinary frequency or urinary incontinence;
· mood changes and anxiety;
· reduced quality of life due to a combination of these symptoms.
It is important not to automatically attribute every new symptom after the age of 40–45 to “hormones.” Significant weakness, unusual bleeding, persistent pain, or a sudden deterioration in health should be assessed separately by a healthcare professional.
Do I Need Hormone Tests to Check Whether I Am Going Through Menopause?
In a typical situation, menopause or the menopausal transition can usually be assessed based on a woman’s age, menstrual cycle changes, and symptoms.
The main goal of a medical consultation is not simply to confirm that ovarian function is declining, but to understand:
which symptoms are affecting the woman, how much they interfere with her quality of life, and which treatment options are most appropriate for her.
Can Menopause Be Treated?
Menopause itself is a normal physiological stage and does not need to be “treated.”
Its symptoms, however, can be treated.
Both hormonal and non-hormonal treatment options are available. The choice depends on the woman’s symptoms, age, time since the last menstrual period, cardiovascular and bone health, medical history, and individual risk factors.
For example, menopausal hormone therapy may be considered for significant hot flashes and night sweats, while local treatments can be used for vaginal dryness and pain during sex.
Treatment should always be selected individually together with a healthcare professional.
Why Is It Important Not to Ignore This Stage of Life?
Menopause affects more than just the menstrual cycle.
The decline in estrogen levels is associated with changes in bone health, the cardiovascular system, the genitourinary system, and pelvic floor tissues. For this reason, perimenopause is a good opportunity not only to discuss hot flashes and other symptoms, but also to review your overall health.
The menopausal transition can be a good time to reassess:
· physical activity;
· nutrition;
· sleep quality;
· smoking and alcohol consumption;
· cardiovascular risk factors;
· bone health;
· sexual health;
· recommended age-appropriate health screenings.
When Should You See a Gynecologist?
You do not need to wait until your symptoms become unbearable.
Consider seeing a doctor if:
· hot flashes or night sweats interfere with your sleep or work;
· you experience vaginal dryness or pain during sex;
· your periods become significantly heavier or longer;
· you have bleeding between periods;
· you experience vaginal bleeding after menopause;
· sleep problems, mood changes, or other symptoms are affecting your well-being;
· you would like to discuss menopausal hormone therapy;
· you simply want to understand what is happening to your body and what you can do to protect your long-term health.
Menopause is a normal stage of life. But there is no need to tolerate significant symptoms simply because they are considered “normal” or “something every woman goes through.”
Modern medicine offers effective treatment options that can improve quality of life and help support long-term health for many years to come.
