Perimenopause marks the transition to menopause, where you may begin to notice various signs and symptoms as your menstrual cycles come to an end. During this time, you might experience weight gain, hot flashes, and mood swings. The experience varies for each woman, but typically, perimenopause lasts around a year unless you’ve had a full hysterectomy. It generally occurs between ages 45 and 55, after which you’re considered postmenopausal.
Here are 20 common signs and symptoms of perimenopause:
- Missed Periods: If your periods become irregular or change significantly, it could signal that menopause is approaching. This phase can start in your late 40s or 50s. It’s essential to consult your doctor if you notice these changes, as menopause is officially reached after a full year without menstruation.
- Hot Flashes: Many women experience sudden, intense heat, causing sweating and flushing. These can vary in intensity and might disrupt your sleep. Finding effective ways to manage hot flashes is crucial, as they can persist for years.
- Weight Gain: Weight gain, especially around the midsection, is common and can raise the risk of heart disease. Maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise can help manage this change.
- Sleep Deprivation: Hormonal fluctuations can cause insomnia and disrupt sleep due to hot flashes. Improving your sleep may involve regular exercise, melatonin supplements, and relaxation techniques.
- Vaginal Dryness: Decreased estrogen can lead to vaginal dryness, making intimacy uncomfortable. Over-the-counter lubricants and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help. Consult your gynecologist for the best options.
- Mood Swings: Hormonal changes can lead to mood swings, similar to PMS or pregnancy. Finding ways to manage these changes, such as focusing on positive aspects of life and practicing relaxation techniques, can help.
- Sore Breasts: Tender, sore breasts can result from hormonal changes. A supportive bra and reducing caffeine intake may offer relief. Discuss significant discomfort with your doctor.
- Chronic Headaches: Hormonal fluctuations can cause frequent headaches or migraines. Reducing caffeine, managing stress, and considering hormone therapies might help. Persistent headaches should be evaluated by your doctor.
- Decreased Sex Drive: Hormonal shifts can affect libido. Some treatments and medications can reduce these symptoms, and learning about your options from your doctor can improve your sexual experience.
- Incontinence: You might experience urinary leaks or urgency. Kegel exercises can strengthen pelvic muscles, and discreet products are available to help manage this issue.
- Night Sweats: Like hot flashes, night sweats can disrupt sleep due to fluctuating estrogen levels. With night sweats, you may wake up from sleep with a racing heart rate, your skin feeling cold and clammy, and your bed soaked in sweat. Managing these symptoms involves strategies similar to those for hot flashes.
- Memory Problems: Forgetfulness or brain fog can occur due to hormonal changes affecting brain function. If this impacts daily life, discuss potential treatments with your doctor.
- Chronic UTIs: Increased risk of urinary tract infections may result from hormonal changes. Good hygiene and consult your doctor for treatment can help prevent and manage infections.
- Changes to Skin and Hair: Lower estrogen levels can make skin drier and thinner and hair more brittle. Regular skincare and gentle hair products can help manage these changes.
- Increased Hair Growth: Some women experience increased hair growth on the face or body. Treatments are available to manage unwanted hair.
- Anxiety or Depression: Hormonal changes can impact mental health, leading to increased anxiety or depression. Persistent feelings should be addressed with a mental health professional.
- Decreased Muscle Mass: Menopause can lead to a loss of muscle mass. Regular strength training and exercise can help maintain muscle and overall health.
- Slowed Metabolism: A slower metabolism can make weight gain easier. Staying active and eating a balanced diet can support a healthy weight.
- Dry Eyes: Decreased tear production can cause sensations like grittiness, stinging, burning, or irritation. Fortunately, not everyone will experience this lesser-known symptom.
- Increased Risk of Other Diseases: Menopause can raise the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with diet and exercise is essential to mitigate these risks.
Hormonal changes during menopause, and even afterward, can lead to a faster loss of bone mass, making women more susceptible to weak bones and fractures.
If you’re experiencing any of these signs and symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor. They can help you find the best therapies and treatments to manage this transition smoothly and support your overall well-being.