Perimenopause refers to the time leading up to menopause, when a woman's body makes the natural transition toward permanent infertility. It's an extended stage of hormonal shifts that can last anywhere from 2-10 years.
During perimenopause, estrogen and progesterone levels begin to fluctuate and decline. This leads to common symptoms like:
While frustrating, these symptoms are very normal for women in their late 30s, 40s and early 50s. Here's a bit more detail on what causes perimenopause and how to manage symptoms:
Perimenopause starts when the ovaries begin making less estrogen. This fluctuating estrogen sends signals to the brain to release more follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
So perimenopause begins several years before actual menopause when FSH/LH levels rise due to waning ovarian function. This rise in FSH/LH causes the ebbs and flows of estrogen common during the perimenopausal transition.
Eventually estrogen declines to the point where ovulation ceases permanently, FSH/LH levels out, and official menopause (no period for 12 months) begins.
While bothersome, perimenopausal symptoms can be managed through lifestyle measures like:
If symptoms disrupt daily life, low-dose birth control, antidepressants or hormone therapy could help stabilize mood and cycles. Bioidentical hormones like estrogen/progesterone creams may also alleviate hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness.
I highly recommend contacting the caring professionals at Hormone Harmony if you want personalized guidance on navigating perimenopause. Their integrative approach combines bioidentical hormones, nutrition and fitness advice tailored to your needs. I found their telehealth service very convenient, and appreciated their warmth and attentiveness during a tricky transition. Hormone Harmony offers complimentary 15-minute consults if you have questions about perimenopause or menopause care.