Perimenopause Symptoms FAQ (Part 1)

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What is perimenopause?

It is the time leading up to menopause (when you have not had your period for twelve months). During perimenopause, your body starts making less of certain hormones (estrogen and progesterone), and you begin to lose the ability to become pregnant.

How long does perimenopause last?

It varies. Women normally go through menopause between ages 45 and 55. Many women experience menopause around age 51. However, perimenopause can start as early as age 35. It can last just a few months or a few years. There is no way to tell in advance how long it will last OR how long it will take you to go through it.

I’ve been depressed in the past. Will this affect when I start going through perimenopause?

It could. Researchers are studying how depression in a woman’s life affects the time she starts perimenopause. If you start perimenopause early, researchers don’t know if you reach menopause faster than other women or if you’re just in perimenopause longer.

What should I expect as I go through perimenopause?

Some women have symptoms during this time that can be difficult. These symptoms include:

* Changes in your menstrual cycle (longer or shorter periods, heavier or lighter periods, or missed periods)

* Hot flashes (sudden rush of heat from your chest to your head)

* Night sweats (hot flashes that happen while you sleep)

* Vaginal dryness

* Sleep problems

* Mood changes (mood swings, depression, irritability)

* Pain during sex

* More urinary infections

* Urinary incontinence

* Less interest in sex

* Increase in body fat around your waist

* Problems with concentration and memory

I don’t understand why I get hot flashes. Could you tell me what’s going on with my body?

We don’t know exactly what causes hot flashes. It could be a drop in estrogen or change in another hormone. This affects the part of your brain that regulates your body temperature. During a hot flash, you feel a sudden rush of heat move from your chest to your head. Your skin may turn red, and you may sweat. Hot flashes are sometimes brought on by things like hot weather, eating hot or spicy foods, or drinking alcohol or caffeine. Try to avoid these things if you find they trigger the hot flashes.

Tags: Menopause, Perimenopause