Perimenopause is the transitional stage leading up to menopause, when a woman's body begins the process of winding down reproductive function. Perimenopause begins several years before menopause actually occurs, when the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone. On average, perimenopause starts when women are in their late 40s, but it can begin as early as age 35.
The hallmark of perimenopause is irregular menstrual cycles. Periods may be lighter or heavier than normal, and the time between periods becomes unpredictable. Some months a woman may skip her period altogether, while other months she bleeds twice in one month. These fluctuations are normal during the perimenopausal transition.
Other common symptoms of perimenopause include:
The duration of perimenopause varies from woman to woman. It typically lasts 3-5 years on average, but can be as short as a few months or last over a decade in some cases. There's no way to predict exactly how long perimenopause will last for any individual.
Some tips for coping with perimenopausal symptoms:
The team at Rejuvenate Medical can provide customized care to help women navigate perimenopause and find relief from symptoms. Our compassionate providers offer cutting-edge hormone balancing, nutrition plans, and holistic therapies to support women's health during this transitional life stage. We empower patients with the information and treatment options they need to take charge of their bodies.
The onset of perimenopause signals the beginning of the end for a woman's reproductive years. While the symptoms can present challenges, perimenopause is a normal transition that all women go through on the pathway to menopause. With proper self-care and guidance from healthcare providers, women can manage perimenopause smoothly and embrace the new chapter ahead.