Perimenopause vs Menopause: What IS This?

Most women I know who are having hormonal hot flashes are confused about what to call what is happening. Am I menopausal? Am I perimenopausal? What is the difference?

What is the Difference Between Menopause and Perimenopause?

Menopause is technically the time of life after a women has stopped having periods for good. Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause when women have symptoms related to hormonal changes, but haven’t stopped having periods. This can be short, lasting a couple of months, or go on for years. The average age of menopause is 50, but our hormones begin to shift in our mid to late 30’s. So some women can experience perimenopausal symptoms for 10 years or more. Perimenopausal symptoms can be all over the board and include both symptoms of menopause AND worsening PMS. There is good news! Some of the same strategies we use for menopause, can work in perimenopause. Below are some examples of common perimenopausal symptoms:

·         Weight gain-specifically in the abdomen

·         Fatigue

·         Exercise feels harder and does not produce the same results

·         Decreased libido

·         Vaginal dryness or cyclical episodes of vaginal irritation

·         Breast tenderness

·         Night sweats

·         Sleep problems

·         Hot flashes

·         Bladder issues- this may be constant or cyclical

·         Return of the acne you thought you had left behind in your teens

·         Mood swings

·         Worsening PMS

·         Heavier periods

·         Irregular periods

·         More painful periods

·         Hair thinning

·         Increased appetite and sugar cravings

·         Migraines

·         Anxiety or difficulty handling stress

·         Your blood sugar and cholesterol numbers are creeping up

 Start a Conversation With Your Doctor

Perimenopause is a great time to get set up with a doctor who can help you and confirm this IS perimenopause.  Women always tell me it is remarkably helpful to simply talk about what they are experiencing and hear they aren’t going crazy! Getting help early sets you up to adjust your treatment plan as things change. And things are always changing as you draw closer to menopause.

Be a Squeaky Wheel

I always tell women to be the squeaky wheel when it comes to getting help. If you are bothered by symptoms, especially bladder and pelvic symptoms, tell your doctor. Complain! This should not be taboo. There are so many effective options available to you.