Sexual Health
Perimenopause
About
Perimenopause, also known as Menopause Transition, commences several years before menopause. It can last for a few months or can continue for some years.
Premenopause and perimenopause have different meanings but are used interchangeably which is incorrect.
Premenopause is when you begin to experience some hormonal shifts but have no symptoms of perimenopause or menopause.
In the perimenopausal stage, your estrogen levels begin to decline slowly. They can also fluctuate leading to irregular periods and some other symptoms.
Symptoms
- Irregular periods
- Hot flashes
- Irritability, mood swings
- Need to urinate more frequently
- Difficulty in sleeping
- Vaginal dryness
- Heavy bleeding or very light bleeding during period
- Weight gain
- Heart palpitations
- Hair changes
Causes
Your ovaries are producing lesser of the hormones that help you ovulate. Hence your menstrual cycle becomes irregular, which is normal.
Complications
If you face any of the below, consult with your gynaecologist immediately :
- Heavy bleeding – you need to change your sanitary pad every 2-3 hours
- Bleeding for more than 7 days
- Bleeding occurs in less than 21 days
- Spotting after sexual intercourse
Potential causes of your bleeding abnormally are - hormonal imbalance, birth control pills, fibroids, blood clotting issues, consumption of blood thinners, and cancer.
Treatment
You can treat the symptoms of perimenopause by doing the following things -
- Exercise regularly
- Eat a healthy balanced diet
- Get enough sleep
- Relax and rest
- Reduce alcohol consumption
- Stop smoking
- Sufficient intake of calcium
