Perimenopause Monthly Symptoms

"Perimenopause" is the term used to describe the transition into menopause. It is a time of wildly fluctuating hormone levels, which can produce a variety of monthly symptoms, from mild to life altering.

Menstrual Irregularity

• Menstrual irregularity is the most common sign of perimenopause. Menstrual irregularity may mean skipped periods, light periods and some periods of heavy bleeding and cramping, all of which are a result of erratic ovulation.

Hot Flashes

• Hot flashes are often portrayed as a comical symptom of perimenopause, but for women experiencing these uncomfortable episodes, they are far from funny. Hot flashes may include intense sweating, flushing, overheating and night sweats.

Decreased Sexual Desire

• Perimenopause often results in decreased sexual desire, mainly from a loss of libido due to a decrease in estrogen. Sexual desire may also wane due to a loss of vaginal lubrication and elasticity, both of which lead to uncomfortable--sometimes painful--intercourse.

Mood Changes

• Some of the most noticeable signs of perimenopause come in the form of mood changes. Many women in perimenopause may be anxious, irritable, emotional and depressed, just to name a few.

Fatigue

• Women in perimenopause often deal with fatigue, due largely to the disrupted sleep and mood changes commonly experienced during perimenopause.

Perimenopause Considerations

• If your monthly perimenopause symptoms are disruptive and affecting your quality of life, it is important to seek the advice of your physician or gynecologist.