When does perimenopause typically begin. What are the common symptoms of perimenopause. How long does perimenopause last. What treatments are available for perimenopause symptoms. How does perimenopause differ from menopause. Can you still get pregnant during perimenopause. What lifestyle changes can help manage perimenopause symptoms.

The Transition Phase: What is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause marks a significant transition in a woman’s reproductive life. It’s the period leading up to menopause when hormonal changes begin to occur, typically starting in a woman’s 40s. During this time, the body gradually produces less estrogen and progesterone, leading to various physical and emotional changes.

How long does perimenopause last? The duration can vary significantly from person to person. For some, it may last only a few months, while for others, it can extend up to 8 years or more. On average, most women experience perimenopause for about 4 years before reaching menopause.

Key Characteristics of Perimenopause

• Fluctuating hormone levels
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Onset of menopausal symptoms
• Decreased fertility, but pregnancy is still possible
• Gradual transition towards menopause

Recognizing the Signs: Common Symptoms of Perimenopause

Perimenopause symptoms can vary widely among individuals, but some common experiences are shared by many women. Identifying these symptoms can help you understand what’s happening in your body and seek appropriate support if needed.

Are hot flashes a sign of perimenopause? Yes, hot flashes are one of the most common and recognizable symptoms of perimenopause. These sudden feelings of intense heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing, can occur during the day or night (night sweats).

Other Common Perimenopause Symptoms

• Irregular periods (longer, shorter, or skipped cycles)
• Mood changes and increased irritability
• Sleep disturbances
• Vaginal dryness and discomfort
• Decreased libido
• Weight gain and slowed metabolism
• Thinning hair and dry skin
• Loss of breast fullness

Can perimenopause cause anxiety? Yes, hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause can lead to increased anxiety and mood swings in some women. This is due to the effects of changing estrogen levels on neurotransmitters in the brain.

The Hormonal Rollercoaster: Understanding Perimenopause’s Impact on Your Body

During perimenopause, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone. This hormonal shift is responsible for many of the symptoms experienced during this transition. Understanding these changes can help you better manage your health during this time.

Key Hormonal Changes in Perimenopause

1. Declining estrogen levels
2. Fluctuating progesterone production
3. Changes in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels
4. Alterations in luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion

Do hormone levels stabilize after perimenopause? Once a woman reaches menopause, hormone levels generally stabilize at a lower level. However, the journey to this point can involve significant fluctuations, which contribute to the varied symptoms of perimenopause.

Navigating Fertility: Pregnancy Possibilities During Perimenopause

While fertility declines during perimenopause, it’s crucial to understand that pregnancy is still possible. Many women mistakenly believe they can’t conceive once perimenopause begins, but this isn’t the case.

Can you get pregnant during perimenopause? Yes, although the chances are lower, pregnancy is still possible during perimenopause. Ovulation may be irregular, but it can still occur. If you’re not looking to become pregnant, it’s important to continue using contraception until you’ve reached menopause (12 months without a period).

Fertility Considerations During Perimenopause

• Ovulation may be unpredictable
• Pregnancy risks may increase with age
• Fertility treatments may be less effective
• Contraception is still necessary to prevent unwanted pregnancy

Managing Perimenopause: Lifestyle Changes and Natural Remedies

While perimenopause is a natural biological process, its symptoms can be challenging. Fortunately, several lifestyle changes and natural remedies can help manage these symptoms and improve overall well-being during this transition.

Effective Lifestyle Changes for Perimenopause

• Regular exercise to maintain bone density and manage weight
• Balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
• Stress reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
• Adequate sleep hygiene
• Limiting caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods to reduce hot flashes

Can diet affect perimenopause symptoms? Yes, a healthy diet can significantly impact perimenopause symptoms. Foods rich in phytoestrogens, such as soy products, flaxseeds, and certain fruits and vegetables, may help balance hormone levels and reduce symptoms like hot flashes.

Natural Remedies for Perimenopause Symptoms

1. Black cohosh for hot flashes and night sweats
2. Evening primrose oil for breast tenderness
3. St. John’s Wort for mood swings (caution: may interact with certain medications)
4. Ginseng for improved sleep and mood
5. Vitamin E for vaginal dryness

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements, as some may interact with existing medications or have contraindications for certain health conditions.

Medical Interventions: When to Seek Professional Help

While many women navigate perimenopause with lifestyle changes and natural remedies, some may benefit from medical interventions. It’s crucial to know when to seek professional help and what treatment options are available.

When should you see a doctor for perimenopause symptoms? Consider consulting a healthcare provider if your symptoms are severe, interfering with daily life, or if you have concerns about your health during this transition. Additionally, seek medical attention if you experience very heavy bleeding, periods lasting longer than seven days, or spotting between periods.

Medical Treatment Options for Perimenopause

• Hormone therapy (estrogen or combined estrogen-progestin)
• Low-dose birth control pills for hormone regulation
• Antidepressants for mood swings and hot flashes
• Gabapentin for hot flashes and sleep disturbances
• Vaginal estrogen for localized symptoms

Is hormone therapy safe during perimenopause? Hormone therapy can be an effective treatment for many perimenopause symptoms, but it’s not suitable for everyone. The risks and benefits should be carefully discussed with a healthcare provider, considering individual health history and risk factors.

Beyond the Physical: Emotional and Psychological Aspects of Perimenopause

Perimenopause isn’t just about physical changes; it can also have significant emotional and psychological impacts. Understanding and addressing these aspects is crucial for overall well-being during this transition.

Common Emotional Challenges During Perimenopause

• Mood swings and irritability
• Anxiety and depression
• Memory lapses and difficulty concentrating
• Changes in self-image and confidence
• Relationship strain due to hormonal changes

How can you cope with the emotional aspects of perimenopause? Strategies for emotional well-being during perimenopause include practicing mindfulness, seeking support from friends or support groups, engaging in regular exercise, and considering therapy or counseling if needed.

Long-term Health Considerations: Perimenopause and Your Future Well-being

While perimenopause is a transitional phase, it’s also a crucial time to focus on long-term health. The hormonal changes during this period can have lasting effects on various aspects of health, making it essential to adopt preventive measures.

Key Health Concerns During and After Perimenopause

1. Bone health and osteoporosis risk
2. Cardiovascular health
3. Weight management
4. Breast health
5. Cognitive function

How can you protect your bone health during perimenopause? To maintain bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, focus on weight-bearing exercises, ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, and consider bone density screenings as recommended by your healthcare provider.

Perimenopause marks a significant transition in a woman’s life, bringing both challenges and opportunities for growth and self-care. By understanding the symptoms, embracing lifestyle changes, and seeking appropriate support when needed, women can navigate this phase with confidence and maintain optimal health as they approach menopause and beyond.

How to Know if You’re Going Through Perimenopause

By
Liz @ Planned Parenthood
|
Dec. 1, 2022, 7:09 a.m.

Category:

Body,
Menopause,
menstruation,
Sexual Health

Typically around middle age, you’ll stop getting your period. Menopause happens when you haven’t gotten a period for a year. But leading up to menopause, people usually go through perimenopause — and often have some of the same symptoms associated with menopause. It can be a confusing and frustrating time. Both are the result of decreased hormone levels, but the two are different. Here’s how: 

What is perimenopause? 

Perimenopause means the time leading up to menopause when you may start having symptoms, as the estrogen (hormone) levels in your body start to change. Perimenopause usually starts in your 40s, and may last anywhere from a few months to 8 years or more.  

Menopause typically begins when you’re in your late 40s or early 50s, but can also result from  medical reasons — including certain cancer treatments or surgical removal of your ovaries.

What are the signs of perimenopause? 

Symptoms are different for everybody. You may begin to notice changes in your menstrual cycle   — periods could start to get further apart or closer together. You’ll have less of a chance of getting pregnant during perimenopause, but pregnancy can still happen. So if you’ve been using birth control to help make sure you don’t get pregnant, don’t stop. 

Many common perimenopause symptoms are similar to menopause signs. For example, hot flashes may occur — when your body feels very hot for brief periods of time, and night sweats. Some people experience mood changes, anxiety, problems sleeping, vaginal dryness, and less interest in sex. 

Not only cis women experience perimenopause and menopause. Some trans and nonbinary people experience these changes, as well.  

How can I treat perimenopause symptoms? 

Sometimes relief from perimenopause symptoms can come from diet and exercise changes. And some people find that non-Western healing practices are helpful — like homeopathy, acupuncture, and herbal treatments. Unfortunately, there isn’t enough research to know whether these things really work. If your perimenopause symptoms are really bothering you, you may want to visit a nurse or doctor for help. Planned Parenthood health centers offer treatment for perimenopause and menopause symptoms — you can make an appointment today.

A nurse or doctor may suggest certain medicines based on your symptoms and medical history. And they may give you a prescription for antidepressants or hormone therapies to manage your symptoms. 

Two changes you may not notice but might be happening inside your body are weaker bones and changing cholesterol levels. A nurse or doctor can give you a bone density test to see if you have a higher risk of the bone disorder, osteoporosis, and a cholesterol blood test to see if you have a higher chance of heart disease.  

Definitely make an appointment with a nurse or doctor if you have extremely heavy bleeding during your periods, bleeding between periods, and/or your periods last longer than seven days or are less than 21 days apart. 

What comes after perimenopause? 

Menopause! Read more about the symptoms you’ll experience in menopause. Spoiler alert: a lot of them are the same as perimenopause symptoms. 

Tags:

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menstruation,

perimenopause,

menopause,

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Sexual Health

What Is Perimenopause? When Does It Begin?

Experiencing mood changes, night sweats, and hot flashes are some of the common symptoms of menopause. 

Sometimes, these symptoms start many months or years before menopause, in a stage known as perimenopause.    

Perimenopause is a transitional phase during which the levels of female sex hormones — estrogen and progesterone — that your ovaries produce fluctuate and then gradually decline. 

Eventually, your periods stop. Twelve months after your last period is when you’ve gone through menopause. 

An early sign of perimenopause is often a change in your menstrual cycle. For instance, you may notice longer or shorter periods, and sometimes you might skip an entire month. 

While it’s hard to pinpoint the exact age a woman will enter perimenopause, it typically begins when she is in her 40s, but it can start much earlier or later.

Many experts believe that genetic factors can largely influence the age you will begin perimenopause. 

Studies have shown that your mother’s age at menopause can indicate the age you begin menopause yourself. So, if your mother had early or late perimenopause, you will likely begin the transition at a similar age. 

Keep reading to learn about perimenopause and what to expect during this significant transition. We also answer your top questions related to all things perimenopause.

What is perimenopause?

Perimenopause translates to “around menopause.” During this stage, the body prepares itself to enter menopause. 

Women start perimenopause at different ages. It can begin as early as your 30s or as late as your mid-50s. In rare cases, some women can even enter perimenopause in their late 20s.

Perimenopause is marked by fluctuations in and a gradual decline in reproductive hormone levels, namely estrogen and progesterone. 

During your menstrual cycle, reproductive hormones ebb and flow predictably. Estrogen levels rise before ovulation, and this triggers your ovaries to release an egg. 

Shortly after ovulation, progesterone levels also begin to rise to prepare the body for pregnancy. If the egg isn’t fertilized, the hormones dip and the lining of the uterus sheds during your period. Then the cycle begins again.     

As you age, the number of eggs in your ovaries declines. During perimenopause, the amount of progesterone and estrogen the ovaries make begins to fluctuate. 

As a result, estrogen levels can rise and fall more randomly than in a typical cycle, leading to less predictable and irregular periods. 

During the later stages of perimenopause, your body will produce less and less estrogen and, eventually, your periods stop. Then, after you’ve missed 12 consecutive cycles, you’ve been through menopause.

Perimenopause begins and ends on its own schedule. The average length women spend in perimenopause is about 4 years. But for some, it may last between a few months and a decade.  

What are the symptoms of perimenopause?

Sometimes, especially early on, the symptoms of perimenopause are subtle or come so gradually that they can be hard to recognize. But as you progress through perimenopause, your symptoms may become increasingly noticeable.

Most women experience at least one of the following symptoms:

Period changes

One of the key symptoms of perimenopause is a change in your periods. You may find that you have irregular periods or spotting between cycles. 

Your periods might be heavier and longer or lighter and shorter. And sometimes, you might skip a cycle altogether. 

Hot flashes

A hot flash is a sudden feeling of intense heat spreading through your body that seems to come from nowhere. 

They’re mostly caused by the hormonal changes that occur in perimenopause and can continue long after menopause. 

Breast tenderness or swelling

Hormonal spikes during perimenopause can cause breast pain to start or increase. 

Breast pain can range from mild tenderness to an intense throbbing sensation and usually resolves after menopause. 

Vaginal dryness

As your estrogen levels fall, the tissue of your vulva and the lining of your vagina become thinner. 

This means that during sex, you may produce less discharge, leaving you feeling dry and uncomfortable. 

Night sweats and insomnia

Night sweats happen when hot flashes occur at night time. They are periods of heavy sweating that can cause sleep disruption and, in some cases, insomnia.

Mood changes

It’s common to experience mood changes, such as irritability, aggression, and mood swings during perimenopause. 

These mood changes can cause a woman’s emotions to fluctuate across the spectrum, from high to low and back again. Some women describe their mood changes as like being in a constant state of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).    

Perimenopausal symptoms vary greatly from person to person. In addition, individuals can experience a different combination of symptoms to varying degrees of severity. 

Unpublished ZOE research found that there was a link between weight and the extent of symptoms during perimenopause. Our scientists found that women with obesity were more likely to experience symptoms. 

You can read more about perimenopausal symptoms here.

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Treatment for perimenopause

Perimenopause is not a disease or disorder. It’s a natural stage in the female reproductive cycle. 

There aren’t any treatments to stop perimenopause, but there are treatments available to help you manage your symptoms. 

Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT)

MHT (also known as hormone replacement therapy or HRT) is a form of treatment that doctors prescribe to help balance out levels of estrogen and progesterone. 

The main benefit of MHT is that it can help relieve symptoms such as night sweats, hot flashes, and vaginal dryness. MHT is available as pills, skin patches, implants, sprays, and gels.

Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and whether MHT is right for you. 

Vaginal creams

Vaginal estrogen creams are applied directly inside the vagina. The cream exclusively treats vaginal symptoms of perimenopause, such as vaginal dryness and any discomfort.  

Get support

Changes in mood, including depression, are common during perimenopause. Research suggests that women are two to four times more likely to experience depressive symptoms during this time compared with the years before they entered perimenopause. 

If you’re not feeling like your usual self, talk to a healthcare professional about your options. 

Your doctor may recommend an antidepressant or suggest working with a therapist to try a talking therapy.

Adjustments to your diet and lifestyle may also help improve perimenopausal symptoms and smooth the transition through menopause.

A healthy diet

Choose a whole-food diet low in saturated fats and rich in fresh produce, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. 

Whole foods are full of fiber, which can help maintain your energy levels, mood, the right levels of nutrients, and a healthy weight through perimenopause and beyond.  

Eat a variety of healthy fats

There is some evidence that healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids, might help reduce the severity of hot flashes and night sweats. However, more research is needed.

To help increase your omega-3 intake, consider adding oily fish, chia seeds, flax seeds, and walnuts to your diet. 

Get regular exercise

Engaging in moderate-intensity exercises, such as cycling or running, is good for overall health at any age.

Research also shows that exercise might help reduce some of the symptoms of perimenopause, such as mood and insomnia. 

However, there is no good evidence that it helps reduce hot flashes.

Slow down and breathe

Some research suggests that mindfulness meditation may help manage stress, anxiety, and hot flashes. 

If you want to try mindful meditation, you could listen to a guided meditation or follow a simple sitting meditation where you focus on the flow of your breathing and your thoughts while sitting upright.

You can find more information on ways to manage perimenopausal symptoms here.

Your questions answered

What age does perimenopause start?

All women start perimenopause at different ages. Perimenopause begins around 8 to 10 years before menopause and usually occurs in your mid-to-late 40s. However, it can start earlier. 

What’s the difference between perimenopause and menopause?

Perimenopause is the phase before menopause. Perimenopause occurs when your menstrual cycle becomes irregular but doesn’t stop entirely. 

Once you’ve gone through 12 consecutive months without a period, you have passed through menopause. 

Can I get pregnant during perimenopause?

Although the chances of getting pregnant during perimenopause are lower, it is still possible to get pregnant. 

So, if you don’t wish to become pregnant at this stage, carry on using contraception until your healthcare practitioner tells you it’s safe to stop.  

Do you still ovulate during perimenopause?

Yes, as long as you’re still getting your period, even if it’s irregular, you are still ovulating. And as long as you’re ovulating, there is the potential to get pregnant.

What causes early perimenopause?

Early or premature perimenopause can occur:

• If you’ve had your ovaries or uterus removed.

• If you have a family history of early menopause.

• Due to lifestyle factors such as smoking.

• If you have a low body mass index (BMI).

• If you have certain medical conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, HIV, and thyroid disease.

• If you’re undergoing treatments that stop your ovaries from functioning, such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy.

What effects will perimenopause have on my sex life?

As a result of lower estrogen levels, you may notice that you’re not as interested in having sex or you’re not as easily aroused.  

Lower hormone levels also contribute to vaginal dryness, which can affect vaginal lubrication. 

If changes in your libido and sexual health are bothering you, you may wish to talk to your healthcare provider about ways to help.  

How is perimenopause diagnosed?

Perimenopause is a natural part of life, and doctors don’t try to diagnose it unless the symptoms cause significant discomfort or interfere with your daily activities. 

Your healthcare provider can often confirm that you’re going through perimenopause based on your symptoms. In some cases, they may run a blood test to check your hormone levels to see if you’re nearing or are in menopause. 

Summary

Perimenopause is a transitional phase that is marked by a drop in estrogen levels.

All people who menstruate will pass through perimenopause at some point, and it usually occurs in their 40s but can happen much earlier or later. 

The symptoms are different for everyone, but it’s common to experience hot flashes, night sweats, irregular menses, mood swings, vaginal dryness, and a lowered sex drive.  

MHT, alongside lifestyle or dietary changes, can help some people manage their symptoms. 

Sources

Adherence to Mediterranean dietary pattern and menopausal symptoms in relation to overweight/obesity in Spanish perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. Menopause. (2015). https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/Abstract/2015/07000/Adherence_to_Mediterranean_dietary_pattern_and.13.aspx

Changes in hormone levels. (2022). https://www.menopause.org/for-women/sexual-health-menopause-online/changes-at-midlife/changes-in-hormone-levels

Early or premature menopause. (2021). https://www.womenshealth.gov/menopause/early-or-premature-menopause

Effects of ethyl-eicosapentaenoic acid omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on hot flashes and quality of life among middle-aged women. Menopause. (2009). https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/Abstract/2009/16020/Effects_of_ethyl_eicosapentaenoic_acid_omega_3.22.aspx

Effects of physical exercise on health-related quality of life and blood lipids in perimenopausal women. Menopause. (2014). https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/Abstract/2014/12000/Effects_of_physical_exercise_on_health_related.5.aspx

Exercise for vasomotor menopausal symptoms. Cochrane Library. (2014). https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD006108.pub4/full

Menopause (n.d.). https://www.fda.gov/consumers/womens-health-topics/menopause

Menopause. Medical Clinics of North America. (2015). https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025712515000218?via%3Dihub

Menstruation and the menopause transition. Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America. (2011). https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S088985451100074X

Mindfulness training for coping with hot flashes results of a randomized trial. Menopause. (2011). https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/Abstract/2011/06000/Mindfulness_training_for_coping_with_hot_flashes_.6.aspx

Mother’s menopausal age is associated with her daughter’s early follicular phase urinary follicle-stimulating hormone level. Menopause. (2008). https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/Abstract/2008/15050/Mother_s_menopausal_age_is_associated_with_her.22.aspx

Omega-3 versus isoflavones in the control of vasomotor symptoms in postmenopausal women. Gynecological Endocrinology. (2017). https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09513590.2017.1332588

Perceived control, lifestyle, health, socio-demographic factors and menopause: impact on hot flashes and night sweats. (2011). Maturitas. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21680119/

Reproductive hormones. (2022). https://www.endocrine.org/patient-engagement/endocrine-library/hormones-and-endocrine-function/reproductive-hormones

What is menopause? (2021). https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-menopause 

Premenopause: what is it, symptoms, signs of premenopause, treatment | Menstruation in premenopause (before menopause)

What is premenopause

To begin with, let’s understand the terms. According to the definition of the World Health Organization (WHO),

• menopause is the last spontaneous menstruation, a kind of starting point, which can be discussed if menstruation is absent for more than one year;
• pre-menopause — the period from the onset of “failures” of the menstrual cycle to the onset of menopause;
• perimenopause — the period of menstrual irregularities preceding the cessation of menstruation and continuing one to two years after menopause;
• post-menopause – the period from menopause to the end of a woman’s life ^{1. 2} .

The first symptom of premenopause in women is the instability of the menstrual cycle. Periods that used to come “by the clock” are now late or start more than 7 days ahead of schedule ¹ . This is primarily due to a decrease in the synthesis of sex hormones – estrogens, involved in the regulation of all processes occurring in the female genital organs ^1.2 .

The drop in estrogen levels is due to the depletion of follicles (vesicles in which eggs mature) and a decrease in their sensitivity to pituitary hormones that are responsible for the functioning of the ovaries. Follicles stop growing and synthesizing estrogens, eggs stop maturing, and this leads to menstrual irregularities ² If a blood test for hormones is done at this time, it will detect these changes.

When premenopause occurs

The first signs of ovarian failure can be seen already at the age of 35 ¹ . However, they do not manifest themselves outwardly: menstruation remains regular, and a woman, if desired, can still give birth to a child.

Premenopausal changes begin on average 5 years before menopause, that is, around the age of 45-46 years. Menopause in most European women occurs at 50-51 years (world average of 48.8 years) ^1.2 .

Sometimes menstruation stops much earlier – in 40-45 years. In this case, we speak of early menopause. If they disappear before the age of 40 – about premature menopause. Early and premature menopause cannot be considered normal. Therefore, if you have symptoms of premenopause earlier than the prescribed age, you need to undergo treatment. Consult a gynecologist, he will conduct an examination and prescribe the necessary therapy.

Managing premenopausal symptoms

If you are practically healthy, there is a chance that you will endure menopause more or less easily. Chronic diseases, which, unfortunately, many people have by the age of 45-50, often complicate the period of hormonal changes. Therefore, half of the women fully feel what premenopause is ^{1. 2} .

What are the possible symptoms?

• Tides.
• Excessive sweating.
• Chills.
• Drowsiness.
• Irritability.
• Anxiety and depression.
• Memory impairment and inattention.
• Periodic headaches.
• Blood pressure fluctuations.
• Attacks of palpitations.
• Weight gain.
• Decreased sex drive ^1.2 .

Hot flashes occur in most women, but the severity varies1. Some note the sudden onset of heat in the face, neck and shoulders, profuse sweating, others in addition to this experience bouts of lightheadedness, dizziness and even fainting associated with a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain. Hot flashes may appear at the very beginning of perimenopause and persist for up to 5 years, and sometimes more than ¹ .

Hormonal imbalance, characteristic of menopause, sometimes leads to disruption of the processes occurring in the uterus ¹ . The internal mucous membrane can grow, which creates problems during menstruation – they become plentiful, with dense blood clots. If these symptoms appear, you should definitely consult a doctor.

The fading of the menstrual function is accompanied by the natural aging of the skin. It becomes thinner, drier, acquires a grayish tint. Skin tone decreases, every month new wrinkles appear on it. These processes cannot be stopped, but it is still possible to slow down aging.

Climax is not a reason to lose heart at all. Today, there are many drugs that can compensate for the deficiency of sex hormones in the body, improve the general condition of the body and protect it from aging and many diseases. You just need to seek help from a doctor and find the right medicine.

Some things you can do on your own:

• exercise and eat to keep fit and normal weight;
• work-life schedule, more outdoor activities, yoga and breathing exercises to reduce stress;
• take care of your health and undergo medical examinations on time.

Live a healthy lifestyle with o.b.® products to help you get through menopause.

Causes and symptoms of menopause in women

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Menopause or menopause is the period in a woman’s life when menstruation stops due to hormonal changes. It usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55, but it can happen earlier.

Menopause begins when the ovaries stop producing estrogen and the production of other reproductive hormones, such as progesterone, decreases. Without these hormones, menstruation stops and pregnancy no longer occurs.

Menopause is not always associated with age. Sometimes other health conditions contribute to this. Women who have undergone surgery to remove their ovaries may experience sudden menopause symptoms. Some medical procedures, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, can also cause premature or sudden menopause.

To find out if you are really experiencing the onset of menopause, see your doctor. In addition, it will help to cope with unpleasant symptoms.

For many women, menopause is a defining period in their lives. Hormonal changes can affect not only the body and emotions, but also the quality of life, relationships with partners or work. Therefore, menopause is also considered a period of various upheavals.

It can be divided into 4 phases:

• Premenopause.

It all starts with her. The first signs of impending menopause may appear around the age of 35, signaling a slow change in hormonal balance.

In this phase, the female body begins to produce less pregnancy hormones (mainly progesterone), which can lead to the so-called estrogen dominance.

Initial hormonal changes usually result in more irregular or heavy periods. Monthly cycles are often shorter at the beginning and longer later.

At the same time, the first symptoms may appear, such as mood swings, sleep disturbances, and a feeling of tightness in the chest.

• Perimenopause.

This is the main phase of menopause, usually beginning between the ages of 45 and 50.

Perimenopause is basically characterized by the ovaries producing less and less estrogen. Menstrual periods become even more irregular, with hot flashes and night sweats. Fatigue sets in, and at the same time, the skin and mucous membranes become more brittle and dry.

This stage can last from several months to 10 years and is a process that can start, stop and resume.

Women who smoke can start perimenopause up to 2 years later than non-smokers.

Some changes you might notice:

• The menstrual cycle changes, it may take longer to return to normal.

• 
  Menstruation stops after a month.

• 
  Changes in your normal bleeding during your period (more or less).

During perimenopause, a woman can still get pregnant.

• Menopause.

The third stage is menopause itself, when a woman has her last menstruation, and hormone production decreases so much that ovulation no longer occurs.

On average, women reach menopause around the age of 50.

• Postmenopausal.

It begins when there is no menstruation for at least a year.

From that moment on, the level of hormones in the female body stabilizes, it becomes more and more accustomed to the changed hormonal situation, and the symptoms of menopause generally subside.

IMPORTANT: In about 1 in 100 women, the ovaries stop working between the ages of 35 and 40 (primary ovarian failure). Doctors talk about premature menopause. Various health problems such as thyroid disease and diabetes can be considered as causes. Chemotherapy, genetic abnormalities, and familial strains may also be the cause. The main focus of therapy is on replenishing the missing female hormones before the onset of natural menopause.

Many women experience menopausal changes without any symptoms in a good mood, able to work, active in sports, and their mental abilities are on top. But there are typical menopausal complaints that can manifest themselves in different ways and are quite difficult to endure.

Hot flashes are usually manifested by slight pressure in the head and discomfort, a sudden feeling of heat. The heat wave then quickly spreads across the face, neck, and upper body. The face turns red and sweat comes out. Many women feel relief from this sweating. Sometimes sweating can be accompanied by chills. Usually the phenomenon lasts from half a minute to several minutes. It can happen almost imperceptibly just a few times a week, but it can happen much more often. Hot flashes, with or without sweating, often occur at night and thus may shorten the time for deep sleep. This can disrupt the sleep-wake cycle in some women.

Up to 85% of menopausal women complain of hot flashes, 55% – even before the onset of menstrual irregularities that herald the onset of perimenopause. Later, these symptoms gradually subside, but in some women they do not go away. The average duration of the tide period is approximately 5 years.

The causes of hot flashes are not fully understood. According to one theory, they can be explained by changes in the thermoregulatory system associated with fluctuations in estrogen production.

Due to the lack of estrogen, the thickness of the mucous membrane in the vagina, urethra and bladder becomes thinner. As a result, the vagina becomes drier and more vulnerable. Itching or burning may also occur. Dryness can make itself felt during intercourse. This problem can be solved, for example, over-the-counter lubricants.

The vaginal flora can get out of balance due to the altered skin structure. The pH value in the vagina is often disturbed due to the lack of protective lactic acid bacteria, making it more susceptible to bacterial infections.

Because the skin structure of the vagina is also a “cushion” for the urethra, bladder weakness (urinary incontinence) can also occur with thinner skin, as the sealing mechanisms of the urethra and bladder are impaired. The pelvic floor muscles can weaken with age. This can increase inflammation of the urinary tract and increase the urge to urinate or urinary incontinence.

A hormone-containing vaginal cream or vaginal tablets can compensate for the lack of hormones in the genital area. But such drugs should be prescribed by your doctor.

One of the consequences of low estrogen production in adulthood is a decrease in the size of the uterus, and often fibroids. The mucous membrane of the uterus is less developed, it is thinner, and the walls of the blood vessels are more fragile. Sometimes this becomes noticeable by light intermenstrual bleeding, which in any case should be discussed with a gynecologist.

The decrease in estrogen activity during menopause shortens the deep sleep phase to four hours. Many women wake up at this time (around 3 or 4 am), sometimes sweating, and then unable to go back to sleep. Typically, a deep sleep phase is followed by a two-hour phase with lesser depth of sleep.

Reduced sleep can affect concentration and performance the next day.

In general, estrogens improve mood and activate the central nervous system. As a result of the hormonal changes associated with menopause, the emotional balance of some women can be disturbed. This is expressed in emotional lability with mood swings, depression and apathy. In very rare cases, tearfulness and anxiety are also possible, up to severe anxiety states (requiring treatment). Nervousness and excessive irritability, as well as aggressiveness, can also be observed.

Hormones may play a role in the development of psychological problems, but environmental conditions or other influencing factors are more important. Personal and professional upheavals often occur during menopause, and then it is difficult to separate them from the symptoms caused by hormonal changes. In the case of chronic psychological problems that aggravate everyday life, women should seek professional support. Initially, it may be a gynecologist.

60 percent of women going through menopause complain of memory loss. Lack of estrogen likely affects certain areas of the brain.

Memory impairment and impaired concentration can be stressful for women. This should be distinguished from a pathological change in the brain, also known as dementia, with its most common form of manifestation – Alzheimer’s disease. Although the links are not yet fully understood, it has been found that the course of Alzheimer’s disease may accelerate after menopause. It is possible that the progression of dementia contributes to the lack of estrogens.

From the age of 35, muscle mass in women begins to decrease if you do not play sports. This process increases with age and is the main cause of joint problems, including back pain.

In addition, a lack of estrogen causes a decrease in blood flow to muscles and joints and a decrease in collagen production with thinning of the articular cartilage and a decrease in synovial fluid, resulting in pain with movement.

The fall in estrogen is accompanied by a decrease in the release of endorphins, which is important for pain regulation. This can lead to a decrease in the pain threshold and, as a result, to an increase in sensitivity to pain.

Due to the decrease in estrogen production, but a constant and therefore relatively high concentration of testosterone in women during and after menopause, more adipose tissue is deposited on the abdomen, which is the cause of an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Many women also commonly complain of an average weight gain of five kilograms. However, an increase in body weight is associated, rather, with an age-related decrease in basal metabolism. Since most of the energy turnover occurs in the muscles, and their mass decreases with age, the body also uses less energy. Consistent eating habits and a growing lack of exercise lead to weight gain.

• Skin aging.

It becomes thinner, drier, and less elastic because it no longer stores as much water. Often the skin on the body turns red and itches. The increased accumulation of pigment creates a tendency for the appearance of age spots. It also reduces the ability to heal wounds.

Menopause can bring with it signs of masculinization due to a lack of estrogen caused by a relative excess of male hormones. This can lead to facial hair growth and scalp hair thinning.

Like the vaginal mucosa, other mucous membranes are also less well supplied with blood and become drier. Decreased production of tear ducts can lead to eye redness and conjunctivitis. Such symptoms can be alleviated with the help of artificial tears – an ophthalmologist will help you choose the appropriate option.

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Although many menopausal symptoms go away on their own, there may be some effects of menopause. The sooner they are recognized, the easier it will be to take countermeasures.

During menopause, many women accumulate fat deposits on the abdomen. This increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. At the same time, fat and sugar metabolism changes. This can lead to narrowing and calcification of the arteries (atherosclerosis), circulatory problems, heart attacks and strokes. An important preventive measure is to prevent excessive weight gain through exercise and change eating habits.

• Osteoporosis.

A serious disease, the risk of which increases after menopause, is osteoporosis. Due to a lack of estrogen, daily bone formation and remodeling can be disrupted. This makes the bone more unstable and more likely to fracture. The skeletal system can be stabilized through sports, targeted isometric exercises, and drug therapy.

About 30 percent of all postmenopausal women have osteoporosis. On average, half of them had a broken bone. Fractures of the femur, arm bones, or vertebral bodies are typical of osteoporosis. Also characterized by a decrease in height and a constant curvature of the spine. The latter is usually clearly visible in old age along the hump in the upper back.

From the age of 35, bone mass in women decreases by 0.3-0.5% per year. In postmenopause, this dynamics is at the beginning from 3 to 5%, in the future from 1 to 2% per year. Less common are women whose bone mass decreases by 3-6% annually in the first 5-10 years after menopause.

Diagnosis is made, for example, by determining bone density. The therapy often takes the form of hormonal treatment and aims to prevent fractures.

Some studies have shown that not only does the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease increase after menopause, but the progression of dementia may also accelerate.

Menopause is diagnosed when there has been no menstruation for 12 consecutive months. Your doctor may state that you are entering perimenopause if you have menopausal symptoms. If you have irregular periods or hot flashes and are concerned, especially if you are under 45, ask your healthcare provider for an evaluation.

If you suspect early menopause, your doctor may suggest doing a blood test that will show:

• An increase in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and a decrease in estrogen levels during menopause.

• Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels because an underactive thyroid can cause menopause-like symptoms.

If menopause has already begun, it is often impossible to reverse it and restore fertility, but there are things that can help relieve the symptoms of menopause.

If some of the signs of menopause are interfering with your normal life, your health care provider may recommend certain measures, such as:

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This type of treatment involves the use of tablets, skin patches, gels, or implants. HRT helps with menopausal symptoms by replacing estrogen that is no longer produced by the body. HRT has many benefits. For example, it can help prevent osteoporosis, so talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of HRT for you.

• Estrogen vaginal creams, lubricants or moisturizers, to relieve vaginal dryness.

• Cognitive behavioral therapy. It can help manage mood swings or increased anxiety during this difficult period.

• Food additives. Taking supplements such as vitamin D and calcium can help keep your bones healthy.

In addition, you can help yourself by changing some habits.

There are some lifestyle changes that can help manage menopausal symptoms or prevent menopausal complications:

• Regular exercise. Weight and resistance training may help prevent osteoporosis, and exercise may also help with mood swings.

• Proper diet. A diet high in fruits and vegetables and low-fat dairy products such as milk and yogurt can help with weak bones and improve overall health.

• Sufficient sunlight. It triggers the production of vitamin D, which also promotes strong bones. Your doctor may also recommend that you take vitamin D supplements to make sure you’re getting enough.

• Smoking cessation and reduction in alcohol consumption. Smoking, alcohol and caffeine may cause flushing. Reducing their intake is also good for your overall health, as these substances can increase your risk of stroke and heart disease.

• Yoga or tai chi classes. Gentle, relaxing exercises can help reduce anxiety.

• Pelvic floor exercises. They are effective for urinary incontinence.

Menopause usually occurs in women between the ages of 45 and 55, but perimenopause can begin as early as age 30.

No. When a woman goes through menopause, she is no longer fertile and cannot become pregnant. However, a woman can still get pregnant during perimenopause if she is still ovulating.