Perimenopause Relief

Perimenopause is the time in a woman's life when her body is preparing for menopause. It can last anywhere from two to eight years and ends one year after a woman's final period. Although it is a natural part of the reproductive cycle, it can cause a variety of symptoms such as heavy bleeding, irregular periods, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, weight gain, problems sleeping and depression. Fortunately there are many ways to get relief during perimenopause.

Birth Control Pills

• Birth control pills can relieve many perimenopause symptoms, even if a woman doesn't need to take them to prevent pregnancy. The Mayo Clinic says that low dose pills are typically used for perimenopause relief. They regulate the menstrual cycle to eliminate period irregularity, reduce hot flashes and relieve vaginal dryness.

Progestin

• Progestin will often regulate an irregular menstrual cycle. It can also relieve heavy bleeding. The Mayo Clinic says it can be administered automatically through a intrauterine device that contains progestin.

Endometrial Ablation

• If bleeding is severe, endometrial ablation can relieve it by destroying the uterine lining. This is done by a doctor using heat, a laser or electrical energy. The menstrual flow is reduced significantly or stopped altogether by this procedure.

Exercise

• The Mayo Clinic says that exercising regularly can relieve common perimenopause symptoms like weight gain, difficulty sleeping and a lowered mood. A woman needs to get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day to get the maximum relief. This can be done through physical activities like walking, biking or swimming.