When does perimenopause typically start. What are the common symptoms of perimenopause. How can you manage menopausal symptoms effectively. What are the pros and cons of hormone replacement therapy. How does menopause affect women’s health long-term. What lifestyle changes can help ease the transition through menopause. Are there natural alternatives to hormone therapy for managing menopausal symptoms.

The Three Phases of Menopause: Perimenopause, Menopause, and Postmenopause

The menopausal transition is not a brief moment in time, but rather a significant era in a woman’s life. This transition consists of three distinct phases: perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. Understanding these phases is crucial for women approaching midlife or those who have noticed changes in their menstrual cycles.

Perimenopause: The Initial Phase

Perimenopause is the first stage of the menopausal journey. During this phase, the body begins to produce less estrogen and progesterone, leading to various symptoms and changes in menstrual patterns. The duration of perimenopause can vary significantly among women, typically lasting between 4 to 8 years.

Menopause: The Midpoint

Menopause itself is defined as the point when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. This marks the end of her reproductive years and the transition into the next phase of life.

Postmenopause: The Final Stage

Postmenopause begins after the 12-month period following the last menstrual cycle. This phase continues for the rest of a woman’s life and is characterized by stabilized hormone levels and the absence of menstruation.

The Average Age of Perimenopause Onset: What to Expect

One of the most common questions women ask is about the timing of perimenopause. While individual experiences may vary, there are some general guidelines to consider:

• According to the North American Menopause Society, the average age of perimenopausal onset is approximately 4 years before the final menstrual cycle.
• Most women stop menstruating around 51 years of age, suggesting that many begin to experience perimenopause at age 47.
• Some women may see changes in their bodies earlier, stopping menstruation around age 45 and entering perimenopause around age 41.
• Premature menopause occurs when a woman experiences her final menstrual period before age 40, thus entering perimenopause in her mid-30s.

Is it possible to predict the exact age of perimenopause onset? While it’s challenging to pinpoint the exact age, the menopausal journey tends to follow similar patterns among family members. Discussing this with female relatives can provide valuable insights into when you might expect to begin your transition.

Factors Influencing the Onset of Perimenopause

Several factors can influence when a woman enters perimenopause:

1. Genetics: Family history often plays a significant role in determining the timing of menopause.
2. Medical procedures: Women who have undergone a hysterectomy or had their ovaries removed may enter menopause earlier.
3. Cancer treatments: Certain cancer treatments, including those for breast cancer, can trigger early menopause.
4. Lifestyle factors: Smoking, body mass index (BMI), and overall health can impact the timing of menopause.

Can medical tests determine if you’re entering perimenopause? Yes, healthcare providers can administer a blood test to measure follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. FSH levels of 30 mL or higher, combined with the absence of menstruation for 12 consecutive months, typically indicate the transition to menopause.

Common Symptoms of Perimenopause: Recognizing the Signs

As the body undergoes hormonal changes during perimenopause, various symptoms may emerge. Recognizing these signs can help women better understand and manage their transition:

• Irregular periods
• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Vaginal dryness
• Mood changes or mood swings
• Sleep disturbances
• Changes in libido
• Weight gain
• Thinning hair and dry skin
• Loss of breast fullness

Why do these symptoms occur? The primary cause is the fluctuation and gradual decline in estrogen and progesterone levels. As the ovaries produce less of these key hormones and cease to release eggs, the body responds with various physical and emotional changes.

Managing Menopausal Symptoms: Effective Strategies and Treatments

While the menopausal transition can be challenging, there are numerous ways to manage symptoms and improve quality of life:

Lifestyle Modifications

Simple changes in daily habits can have a significant impact on managing menopausal symptoms:

• Regular exercise
• Balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Stress reduction techniques such as meditation or yoga
• Avoiding triggers for hot flashes (e.g., spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine)
• Maintaining a cool sleeping environment
• Quitting smoking

Natural Supplements and Remedies

Many women find relief through natural supplements and remedies:

• Black cohosh
• Evening primrose oil
• Soy isoflavones
• Vitamin E
• Omega-3 fatty acids

Are these natural remedies effective for all women? While many women report benefits from these supplements, it’s important to note that scientific evidence for their efficacy is mixed. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Prescription Medications

In some cases, prescription medications may be necessary to manage severe symptoms:

• Low-dose birth control pills (for perimenopausal women)
• Antidepressants for mood changes and hot flashes
• Gabapentin for hot flashes
• Ospemifene for vaginal dryness and painful intercourse

Hormone Replacement Therapy: Weighing the Pros and Cons

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a treatment option that has been widely discussed and debated in the context of menopause management. It involves supplementing the body with estrogen and, in some cases, progesterone to alleviate menopausal symptoms.

Potential Benefits of HRT

• Effective relief from hot flashes and night sweats
• Improvement in vaginal dryness and discomfort
• Potential reduction in risk of osteoporosis
• Possible improvement in mood and cognitive function

Potential Risks and Concerns

• Increased risk of breast cancer (particularly with long-term use)
• Elevated risk of blood clots and stroke
• Possible increase in risk of heart disease (in older women or those starting HRT later in menopause)

Should all women consider hormone replacement therapy? HRT is not suitable for everyone and should be carefully considered on an individual basis. Factors such as age, medical history, and personal risk factors play a crucial role in determining whether HRT is an appropriate option.

Long-term Health Considerations in Menopause

As women transition through menopause, it’s important to be aware of potential long-term health implications:

Bone Health and Osteoporosis

The decline in estrogen levels during menopause can lead to accelerated bone loss, increasing the risk of osteoporosis. Regular weight-bearing exercise, adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, and bone density screenings are crucial for maintaining bone health.

Cardiovascular Health

Post-menopausal women may have an increased risk of heart disease. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management, can help mitigate this risk.

Urinary and Vaginal Health

Decreased estrogen levels can lead to changes in the urinary tract and vaginal tissues, potentially causing urinary incontinence and vaginal dryness. Pelvic floor exercises and vaginal moisturizers can help address these issues.

Cognitive Function

Some women report changes in memory and cognitive function during menopause. While the exact relationship between menopause and cognitive decline is not fully understood, maintaining mental activity, social engagement, and a healthy lifestyle may help support brain health.

How can women best prepare for these long-term health considerations? Regular check-ups with healthcare providers, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and staying informed about menopausal health are key strategies for navigating this life transition successfully.

Embracing the Menopausal Journey: A Holistic Approach

While menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years, it also signifies the beginning of a new chapter in life. Embracing this transition with a positive mindset and holistic approach can lead to improved well-being and quality of life.

Emotional and Mental Well-being

The emotional aspects of menopause are often overlooked but are crucial to address:

• Practice self-compassion and patience
• Engage in activities that bring joy and fulfillment
• Consider counseling or support groups to share experiences and coping strategies
• Explore mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques

Nurturing Relationships

Menopause can impact relationships, particularly intimate ones. Open communication with partners, friends, and family about the changes and challenges of menopause can foster understanding and support.

Career and Personal Growth

Many women find that menopause coincides with a time of career advancement or personal reinvention. Embracing new opportunities for growth and self-discovery can be empowering during this life stage.

Physical Wellness Beyond Symptom Management

While managing symptoms is important, focusing on overall physical wellness can have far-reaching benefits:

• Explore new forms of physical activity that you enjoy
• Prioritize sleep hygiene for better rest
• Experiment with nutrition to find a diet that supports your changing body
• Consider alternative therapies like acupuncture or massage for overall well-being

How can women reframe their perspective on menopause? Instead of viewing menopause solely as a time of loss or decline, it can be seen as an opportunity for self-discovery, growth, and renewed focus on personal health and well-being.

Navigating Healthcare During Menopause: Building a Support Team

Effective management of menopause often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Building a healthcare support team can ensure comprehensive care and support throughout the menopausal transition.

Key Healthcare Providers

• Gynecologist or women’s health specialist
• Primary care physician
• Endocrinologist (if hormonal issues are complex)
• Mental health professional
• Nutritionist or dietitian
• Physical therapist (especially for pelvic floor health)

Regular Health Screenings

Menopause is an ideal time to stay on top of important health screenings:

• Mammograms
• Bone density scans
• Cholesterol and blood pressure checks
• Colon cancer screenings
• Thyroid function tests

How often should these screenings be conducted? The frequency of screenings can vary based on individual risk factors and medical history. Consult with your healthcare provider to establish an appropriate screening schedule.

Advocating for Your Health

Being an active participant in your healthcare is crucial during menopause:

• Keep detailed records of symptoms and concerns
• Research and ask questions about treatment options
• Don’t hesitate to seek second opinions when necessary
• Communicate openly about your preferences and concerns

By taking a proactive approach to healthcare during menopause, women can ensure they receive comprehensive and personalized care that addresses all aspects of their health and well-being.

The Future of Menopause Research and Treatment

As our understanding of menopause continues to evolve, new research and treatments are emerging to improve the menopausal experience for women:

Advancements in Hormone Therapy

Researchers are exploring new formulations and delivery methods for hormone therapy that may offer the benefits of traditional HRT with reduced risks. These include:

• Bioidentical hormones
• Tissue-selective estrogen complexes
• Novel delivery systems such as transdermal patches or vaginal rings

Non-Hormonal Treatments

There is growing interest in developing effective non-hormonal treatments for menopausal symptoms:

• Neurokinin 3 receptor antagonists for hot flashes
• Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) for vaginal health
• Cognitive behavioral therapy apps for managing mood and sleep disturbances

Personalized Medicine Approaches

The future of menopause treatment may lie in personalized medicine, tailoring interventions based on individual genetic profiles, lifestyle factors, and personal preferences.

Expanding Research Focus

Research is broadening to include previously understudied aspects of menopause:

• Impact of menopause on brain health and cognitive function
• Role of gut microbiome in menopausal symptoms
• Influence of environmental factors on menopause onset and symptoms

What can women expect from future menopause treatments? While it’s difficult to predict specific advancements, the trend is moving towards more personalized, comprehensive, and integrative approaches to managing menopause. This may lead to more effective treatments with fewer side effects and a greater emphasis on overall well-being throughout the menopausal transition.

As research progresses, staying informed about new developments and discussing them with healthcare providers can help women make the best decisions for their health during menopause and beyond.

What is the Average Age of Perimenopause Onset?

If you’ve landed on this article, chances are you have some curiosity around the menopausal transition . Perhaps you’ve noticed irregular periods or maybe you’re approaching your midlife years and are wondering when the change will happen for you. Whatever it may be, you’ve come to the right place to learn more. The menopausal transition isn’t a mere fragment of time – rather, we regard it as an era of life. This is because there are three phases of menopause. The first phase is perimenopause, the mid phase is menopause and the last phase is postmenopause. The age you’ll begin to feel the effects of perimenopause varies – keep reading to learn more.

What Age Will You Experience Perimenopause?

What age will I experience perimenopause? This is a common question that comes from folks who are curious when their menopausal journey will begin. According to the North American Menopause Society, the average age of perimenopausal onset is about 4 years before the final menstrual cycle. Most women tend to stop menstruating around 51 years of age, so that means many begin to experience perimenopause at age 47. However, some women see changes in their bodies even soon and can stop menstruating around age 45, meaning they enter the perimenopausal phase around age 41. Premature menopause is considered to be when a woman experiences her final menstrual period before age 40, thus entering perimenopause in her mid 30s. A gentle reminder: it is possible to get pregnant during perimenopause, so be sure to have a chat with your gynecologist about the best birth control options for you. 

Everybody is different, so it can be difficult to pinpoint the expected age of perimenopause. However, the menopausal journey tends to remain somewhat the same amongst family members. Speaking to the women in your family can help provide clarity around when you can expect to begin your evolution. If you’re starting to feel like you’re entering the perimenopausal phase (read on to understand key symptoms), give your women’s health expert a call. They can administer a blood test to measure your follicle-stimulating hormone levels also known as FSH. It is typically understood that when the follicle-stimulating hormone levels are measured at 30 mL or higher plus she hasn’t had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months, she has reached the menopause phase. Remember, the menopause phase is regarded as the 12 month period without a menstrual cycle. This means that once you haven’t bled for 12 months, you have another 12-24 months (expert opinions vary on this length of time) before you can consider yourself in the postmenopausal phase. 

If you’ve undergone a hysterectomy, meaning you’ve had your ovaries removed, you’re likely to enter the menopausal era earlier. The same applies if you’ve received certain cancer treatments, including breast cancer treatment. If that is your case, make sure to chat with your healthcare expert for the most realistic menopausal timeline. 

Symptoms of Perimenopause

As we dig into the symptoms of perimenopause, let’s start with a quick science lesson around the cause of menopause. Menopause occurs when the body begins to experience changes in its sex hormones, specifically estrogen and progesterone. This is due to the ovaries producing less  key hormones and ceasing to release eggs. This is a gradual process, thus explaining the necessity of three separate phases of menopause. These decreased estrogen levels during perimenopause will trigger hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood changes or mood swings, and irregular periods. Fun stuff, huh? Luckily, there are solutions for each of these menopausal transition symptoms. 

Our Core Dietary Supplement tackles the seven most common symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, night sweats, disrupted sleep, mood swings, brain fog, and fatigue. If you find that vaginal dryness is particularly bothersome for you, we have a Daily Vaginal Lotion that immediately tackles discomfort. Folks report feeling relief after just two applications. Vaginal dryness is yet another side effect of those fluctuating estrogen levels. Our vaginal lotion is hormone-free and is filled with nourishing plant humectants and Vitamin E.

If you find that mood changes are beginning to significantly impact your life, consider reaching out to a mental health professional. Mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and antidepressants are all options on the table as effective treatment for overwhelming menopausal mood changes. 

Your healthcare provider may bring up hormone therapy as an option for managing symptoms related to the menopausal transition. While hormone replacement therapy is an option for some, it isn’t for everyone. It is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, so we suggest trying out natural methods for relief first. A natural method that is often suggested is black cohosh. Black cohosh can have pretty uncomfortable side effects like stomach upset, cramping, headache, rash, vaginal bleeding, and weight gain – so some opt to avoid this supplement. 

Navigating Hot Flashes

Ah, hot flashes. They get their own section. Hot flashes and night sweats are two common signals of the menopausal transition women experience that often get the worst rap. They’re joked about  in popular culture and can often feel like one of the more uncontrollable symptoms of menopause. Yet, they can be managed naturally. 

First, let’s understand the cause of hot flashes. When your estrogen levels lower in your body, your hypothalamus becomes more sensitive. The hypothalamus regulates your body’s temperature, so when it becomes hypersensitive, it also becomes overactive. So if you experience body temperature fluctuations of just one or two degrees, your hypothalamus will go into overdrive in an attempt to regulate your body heat. This, in turn, triggers a hot flash. A night sweat is the same concept, but when you’re sleeping. As you can imagine, our body’s temperature varies quite a bit while we’re sleeping, thanks to cozy blankets and chilly air conditioner units. Thus, a night sweat is a hot flash so strong it jolts you from your sleep.  

We recommend tackling menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats both with lifestyle changes and natural supplements. Our Core Dietary Supplement minimizes the occurrence of hot flashes thanks to its key ingredient Pycnogenol, which promotes healthy blood circulation. Our Sleep Enhancing Dietary Supplement also has the nourishing Pycnogenol plus melatonin, to lull you back to sleep when night sweats strike. 

Light and breathable fabrics can help keep your body cool. Look for natural fibers like silk, cotton, and linen. The same goes for your face masks – after all, staying safe during the COVID-19 pandemic is key. Consider keeping a damp washcloth on your bedside to press on your forehead and neck during a night sweat. You can even drop a touch of eucalyptus essential oil for further cooling effects. 

If you’re looking for simple relief to hot flashes and night sweats, try our Cool Down Mist, formulated with omega-rich extracts to nourish, hyaluronic acid to hydrate, and with our InstaCalm-3 Complex – a blend of three clinically-studied ingredients shown to provide an immediate skin-cooling sensation and help reduce the intensity of hot flashes and night sweats.

A Menopause-Friendly Lifestyle

As you look towards your midlife years, lifestyle matters. This isn’t solely due to your menopausal transition, but certainly is partially because of it. As you evolve into your midlife years, many postmenopausal women report that osteoporosis,  heart disease, high cholesterol, and weight gain can all become concerns. Decreased estrogen levels can lead to bone loss, which in turn can lead to osteoporosis. Calcium can help offset this natural bone less. As for heart disease, high cholesterol, and weight gain? Regular exercise and a healthy diet full of vegetables and lean meats can help keep these ailments at bay! Keep in mind that ovarian cancer is typically found in postmenopausal women, so be sure to keep up with your annual gynecologist visits. 

Our Promise to You

Perimenopause, menopause, postmenopause and all the side effects in between can add some challenges to your midlife evolution. Social support is a great way to lift your spirits throughout menopause and beyond. We created a Facebook group for like-minded women to connect about life during the menopausal era. Join us!

Want more tailored education and recommendations specific to your own health journey? Take the Kindra hormone assessment to get the answers you deserve.

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The average woman starts perimenopause in their 40s while others can be younger.

• Perimenopause refers to the period of time a woman’s body makes the natural transition to menopause, marking the end of their reproductive years. Most women will be in their 40s however some can be almost a decade younger when the first symptoms begin.

• The main symptoms of perimenopause include irregular periods, hot flashes and night sweats, problems sleeping and mood swings. These symptoms can be managed at home or with the help of a medical practitioner. The options out there include prescriptions and more natural approaches, such as healthy eating, exercise and mediation.

• There is some evidence which suggests some factors that may increase the likelihood of starting perimenopause at an early age. Some of these factors include smoking, your family history, cancer treatments and hysterectomy.

• The changes experienced during perimenopause are often a direct result of decreasing oestrogen. When symptoms are severe, some women opt to use hormone therapy however it does come with some health risks.

Most women understand that their menstrual cycle will end at some point when they get older, but many are unprepared for the years leading up to menopause. Perimenopause (also known as menopausal transition) refers to the period of time your body makes the natural transition to menopause – marking the end of the reproductive years.

The oestrogen levels (the primary female hormone) rise and fall unevenly during perimenopause. As a result, menstrual cycles can get shorter or longer, and there can also be menstrual cycles when your ovaries do not ovulate (release an egg). Other symptoms include hot flashes, sleep problems, and vaginal dryness.

Women start perimenopause at all different ages. Some may not notice signs of progression towards menopause until sometime in their 40s, while others will experience changes as early as in their mid-30s. This article explores this phase of a women’s life, from the symptoms to expect, potential causes of early menopause and how to manage this inevitable time of change.   

The Symptoms of Perimenopause

When a woman starts the menopausal transition, some significant changes will happen in the body. However, some will be more subtle than others, and each comes with its own set of challenges. The perimenopausal symptoms you may experience include the following:

• Irregular periods – One of the more obvious symptoms you may recognise is ovulation becoming more unpredictable. The time between your periods may be shorter or longer, the flow can be lighter or heavier than usual, and some periods may be missed altogether. If there is a persistent change of seven days or more in the length of your menstrual cycle, the chances are you are entering early perimenopause. On the other hand, if you are experiencing a space of 60 days or more between your periods, you may be in the late perimenopause phase.

• Hot flashes and difficulty sleeping – With the topic of menopause, many of us think about the much-reported hot flashes. These uncomfortable hot flashes are also common during perimenopause. The length, frequency and intensity will vary from woman to woman. Hot flashes can also lead to sleep troubles. Night sweats and hot flashes can make it hard for some women to sleep, while others may find sleep unpredictable even without body temperature regulation issues.

• Mood changes – With all the uncomfortable and unpredictable symptoms of perimenopause, it is no surprise it can affect your mood. As a result, you may have mood swings, become irritable, and even have an increased risk of depression. It is important to feel supported during the challenging parts of perimenopause and for those close to you to show understanding.

• Vaginal and bladder troubles – When your oestrogen levels diminish, it is natural for your vaginal tissues to lose lubrication and elasticity. This can lead to intercourse becoming painful. Low oestrogen can also leave you more susceptible to urinary or vaginal infections. In addition, the loss of tissue tone may also lead to urinary incontinence.

• Decrease in fertility – For those wanting to conceive in their later years, perimenopause can cause some complications. As ovulation becomes irregular, the ability to conceive becomes more difficult. If you still have periods, it is still possible to become pregnant – so if you wish to avoid pregnancy, continue to use birth control.

• Changes in sexual urges – If you had a satisfactory level of sexual intimacy before menopause, it is likely you will continue to do so throughout perimenopause and the many years to come. However, some may find their desires and sexual interest may change during perimenopause.  

• Reduced bone strength – With oestrogen levels dropping, you will also begin to lose bone more quickly than you can replace it. This can lead to an increased threat of osteoporosis – a condition that causes fragile bones. The early warning signs of osteoporosis include weaker grip strength, brittle fingernails, and receding gums.

• Changing cholesterol levels – The drop in oestrogen levels can also lead to adverse changes in your blood cholesterol levels. This can include an increase in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol) which contributes to an increased risk of heart disease. Unfortely, at the same time, the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (“good” cholesterol) may also decrease in many women as they age, which can also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Potential Causes of Early Menopause

Many of the perimenopause symptoms listed above are due to the body’s production of oestrogen and progesterone rising and falling. The changes you experience during perimenopause are often a direct result of decreasing oestrogen. It is important to remember that menopause is a completely normal phase of life, and it may occur in some women earlier than others.

Although the research is not always conclusive, there is some evidence to suggest some factors that can increase the likelihood of starting perimenopause at an early age. Some of these factors include:

• Smoking – We all know that smoking is not good for your health and can cause premature ageing. Some studies have also shown that the onset of menopause can occur one to two years earlier in women who smoke than in women who do not smoke.

• Family history – Although a factor we have no control over, women with a family history of early menopause have an increased probability that they too may experience early menopause themselves.

• Cancer treatment – For women that have had to battle cancer with chemotherapy or pelvic radiation therapy may also experience early menopause.

• Hysterectomy – A hysterectomy is a medical procedure which removes your uterus but not your ovaries. It doe not automatically cause menopause, and although you will no longer experience periods, your ovaries will still produce estrogen. However, it has been recorded that women who have had such surgery may enter menopause earlier than average. If only one ovary is removed, the remaining one might also stop working sooner than expected, leading to perimenopause.

Ways to Manage Perimenopause

Perimenopause is a phase of life all women will experience, and there is no treatment to stop it. It could be considered that the “cure” to perimenopause is actually when your periods stop completely, and you enter menopause. However, this does not mean women do not have ways to manage the more unpleasant symptoms of perimenopause.

Some of the ways perimenopause symptoms can be managed at home include the following:

• When you first notice your body entering perimenopause, you will want to ensure you are living the most healthy lifestyle possible.

• Eat a diet full of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and lean protein.

• Try also to keep your alcohol and caffeine intake to a minimum.

• Include weight-bearing exercises like strength training, hiking or walking.

• If you find sleep a little troublesome, try to reduce screen time before bed and instead try meditation or other stress management techniques.

• For those who smoke, perimenopause is when you should quit as it can worsen symptoms.

• If you are overweight or obese, try to lose weight as it can help improve your energy levels and reduces hot flashes and night sweats. Weight gain is also common during menopause so it can be worth getting to a healthy size during perimenopause. 

If you are seeking support from your medical practitioner, they may consider the following treatments:

• Oestrogen therapy is a popular option for managing symptoms as it helps to stabilise your oestrogen levels. In addition, it can be administered in various different forms, such as a cream, gel, patch or pill.

• For women struggling with mood swings or depression, a doctor may consider antidepressants.

• Birth control pills are sometimes prescribed to help stabilise hormone levels and relieve some perimenopause symptoms.

• If hot flashes are causing a huge problem, some medical professionals may consider prescribing a seizure medication called Gabapentin (Neurontin) which has been shown to help women with this uncomfortable symptom.

• Vaginal dryness and painful sex can be difficult for women during perimenopause. There are many vaginal creams available, including prescriptions and over-the-counter options.

Women who have particular difficulty with perimenopause may consider hormone therapy. As a general rule, healthcare professionals will recommend that people who decide to use hormone therapy do so within ten years of beginning menopause symptoms and continue to use it for less than five years. This is because there are known risks associated with oestrogen and hormone treatment, linked to an increased risk of heart problems and other severe health conditions.

Perimenopause is a completely natural phase of life for women and will begin at a different age for different women. It can sometimes be hard to tell whether you are actually having symptoms of perimenopause. When getting your healthcare provider to diagnose you, they will consider your age, symptoms and medical history. They may also perform a blood test to measure your hormone levels.

Some women experience very mild symptoms during perimenopause and will not require any treatments for their symptoms. Perimenopause can also be a time to make lifestyle changes to help prevent age-related conditions. It can be a time of your life when you can embrace your maturing body and look forward to a time when periods are no longer a factor.

What is the average age to be perimenopausal?

The average age for the onset of perimenopause is 47.5 years old. However, this figure will vary depending on race and ethnicity. The age you start perimenopause can also be affected by your lifestyle and where you live. Some women may experience perimenopause before the age of 40, but this will affect only around 1% of women.  

What is the most common early symptom of perimenopause?

The most common symptom of perimenopause is irregular periods. However, if you do experience irregular bleeding, you may want to speak with your doctor to check if it is the beginning of perimenopause or points to another underlying problem.

Can perimenopause make you feel weird?

Every woman will have her own unique experience of perimenopause as we are all different. The hormonal fluctuations can play havoc with emotional well-being, and this symptom can also directly affect sleep health. You can feel frustrated, irritable and even angry due to the hormone, lack of sleep and low energy levels.

What is the difference between premenopausal and perimenopausal?

The difference between perimenopause and perimenopause is that perimenopause means “around menopause”, whereas premenopause means “before menopause.” Some healthcare professionals use the term perimenopause to refer to the years before menopause – when your hormone levels are changing but still menstruating.

Can perimenopause symptoms come and go?

The symptoms of perimenopause are unrealisable, and every day can be different. With this in mind, women should expect their symptoms to come and go for years before their period stops altogether.

References

https://www.mayoclinic. org/diseases-conditions/perimenopause/symptoms-causes/syc-20354666

https://www.bmj.com/content/344/bmj.e402.long

https://glycanage.com/self-care/journeys/the-missing-link-between-menopause-and-biological-age/

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/landia/article/PIIS2213-8587(22)00076-6/fulltext

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3223258/

https://glycanage.com/self-care/journeys/an-empowering-journey-through-menopause/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5994393/

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/landia/article/PIIS2213-8587(21)00269-2/fulltext

https://insight.jci.org/articles/view/124865

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8034540/

https://www.scielo.br/j/spmj/a/HdNWyPCrwKFx4vN6T5GBMDv/?lang=en

Late menopause was explained by regular sex

After studying a sample of almost three thousand women, scientists came to the conclusion that the timing of menopause depends on the regularity of sexual activity: the more often women in premenopause have sex, the longer their menstrual cycle lasts. Perhaps the point is that it is simply unprofitable for the body to spend resources on ovulation if there is still no chance of getting pregnant. The study is published in Royal Society Open Science Journal .

Menopause – that is, stopping the menstrual cycle – usually occurs in women at 44-54 years. However, it is still unclear what caused such a significant variation in age. Although the timing of menopause is largely heritable, genetic factors account for only half of the variation. The other half is due to some external influences.

Megan Arnot and Ruth Mace of University College London have noticed that in many studies menopause occurs later in married women than in unmarried women. The researchers offered two possible explanations for this fact. The first suggested that contact with a man itself affects the cessation of menstruation: his pheromones (although most scientists today do not recognize their existence) can act on a woman’s body, keeping her in a fertile state. The second explanation is related to sex: since it happens more often in married people than in single people, it can be assumed that it is he who postpones menopause.

The researchers worked with a sample of 2936 women from the US National Women’s Health Survey who entered the study in 1996-1997. At this point, all of them had intact ovaries (at least one), continued menstruation, and none of the participants was pregnant. For 10 years, they visited the doctor every year and answered questionnaires.

In addition to their menstrual status, women reported how often they had sex and whether they lived with their romantic partner or other males (such as a son or brother). Also, in their analysis, the researchers took into account their body mass index, the presence of bad habits, the level of education, the number of children, the age of onset of menstruation, and the concentration of female sex hormones in the blood.

At the start of the study, the average age of the women was 45 years. Over 10 years of follow-up, 45 percent went through menopause, with an average of 52 years. The authors of the study calculated that those who had sex regularly (at least once a week) had a 28 percent lower risk of menopause than those who did not have sex at all. Those who had sex once a month had a 19 percent lower risk.

At the same time, the pheromone hypothesis was not confirmed: the risk of menstruation cessation practically did not differ depending on whether the woman lived with a partner or with any other man.

Thus, the researchers confirmed their second hypothesis, according to which the time of menopause is associated with the frequency of sexual intercourse. Despite the fact that the authors of the work established only a correlation, and not a causal relationship, they offered their own version of how sex can affect menopause. From the point of view of the distribution of resources, they believe, it is beneficial for a woman’s body to spend energy on the maturation of eggs and ovulation only when there is a chance of becoming pregnant. In the same case, when there is no such chance, it is more efficient to stop ovulation and invest energy in raising offspring.

Previously, scientists have found signs of menopause in elephants, as well as in cetaceans – narwhals and beluga whales. They also found that in married couples, frequent sex does not contribute to happiness, but women who have sex often have better memory.

Polina Loseva

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Menopause, early menopause in Kyiv – private clinic Oberig. Menopause, early menopause

What is the difference between menopause and menopause in women and what is it?

Despite the fact that these two concepts are quite similar, since they are associated with the completion of the childbearing period in a woman’s life, there is still a difference between them. If menopause is the cessation of menstruation as such, then menopause is characterized by a large list of changes, including hot flashes, hormonal disruptions and the absence of menstruation, there is a significant difference in the period – it can differ significantly.

Age, type of manifestations and their intensity depend on the characteristics of the organism. For some, menopause goes almost unnoticed, while others suffer from various unpleasant changes that negatively affect mood and general well-being. In order for these changes to pass as easily as possible, it is necessary to be observed by a professional gynecologist who will be able to choose the right therapy in time.

If you are wondering at what age and when does menopause end in women, how long does it last, what are the signs and symptoms, can it be delayed, is it necessary to use contraception if your period is late and is there a chance of getting pregnant during this period, and is diet required during menopause – you can get answers to all these questions at the Oberig clinic.

Menopause: when it starts, first signs, nutrition and drugs for complications

The period of natural menopause or the onset of its first symptoms in most women begins between the ages of 45 and 55, it can also be early or surgical. The last two events may occur due to the removal of the ovaries or therapy, which can lead to a decrease or complete cessation of estrogen production.

The reason to see a specialist may be not only a delay in menstruation, but also the following manifestations:

• cycle failure – menstruation may begin earlier or later, their duration and intensity change, pain and swelling may also occur, which were not previously observed;
• bleeding after intercourse – in this case we are not talking about damage, spotting may appear after habitual and previously pleasant activities;
• hot flashes – a sudden sensation of heat all over the body, this is one of the symptoms that women try to get rid of during menopause in the first place;
• fatigue upon waking – often due to nocturnal flushes, which significantly reduce the phase of active sleep;
• vaginal dryness – as a result of a decrease in estrogen levels, the tissues can become thinner and dryer, which causes discomfort and pain.

These are just some of the symptoms that occur during menopause, and the length of time they can last varies greatly as well.

Turning to a gynecologist at the Oberig clinic, you will not only learn everything about menopause and its symptoms, at what age does it begin, but also receive such treatment that will make your life as comfortable as possible. An experienced doctor will prescribe the necessary examinations, as well as select medications that can normalize hormonal levels during this period.

If you are planning a pregnancy, or vice versa, you want to choose effective contraceptives that will allow you to live a full sexual life without unnecessary risks, our specialists can also help you with this.

Why should you contact Oberig?

Because we employ the best specialists in various fields, this allows us to look at any problem comprehensively and select the most effective method for solving it. Our clinic has modern functional equipment, thanks to which we can do high-quality informative examinations and get results in the shortest possible time.