What Is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional phase a woman goes through as her body prepares for menopause, the end of menstruation and fertility. This term means "around menopause" and typically begins in a woman's 40s, although it can start earlier or later.

During perimenopause, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that regulate menstruation and other reproductive processes. This can cause a wide range of physical, emotional, and mental changes, including:

- Irregular menstrual cycles

- Hot flashes

- Night sweats

- Sleep disturbances

- Mood swings

- Vaginal dryness

- Changes in libido

- Difficulty concentrating

- Weight gain

- Skin and hair changes

- Loss of bone density

- Increased risk of heart disease and stroke

The duration of perimenopause can vary from a few months to several years. It eventually leads to menopause, when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a period.

Perimenopause can be a challenging time for women, but it's important to remember that it's a natural process. There are several lifestyle changes and medical treatments that can help manage the symptoms of perimenopause and improve overall well-being during this transition.