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Perimenopause Causes

Perimenopause refers to the transitional time when a woman nears the end of her reproductive years. Perimenopause is a natural occurrence in aging women, caused by hormone fluctuations and other natural aging processes.

  1. Time Frame

    • Perimenopause usually begins between ages 45 and 55, and lasts two to eight years. Some women may begin perimenopause as early as their 30s. Menopause occurs when a woman has not menstruated in 12 months.

    Egg Follicles

    • During a regular menstrual cycle, eggs mature inside fluid-filled sacks called follicles, full of cells that produce estrogen. As you age, egg quality declines and the follicles disappear, preventing the maturation of eggs that leads to ovulation and menstruation.

    Hormone Fluctuations

    • When egg follicles disappear, estrogen levels drop and the pituitary gland works harder to maintain regular hormone levels. These hormone fluctuations cause the symptoms of perimenopause.

    Early Perimenopause

    • Perimenopause tends to occur earlier in women who smoke, have undergone cancer treatment radiation, or who have had a hysterectomy. Women who have not had a child may also begin perimenopause early.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms of perimenopause include breast tenderness, depression, hot flashes, libido changes, missed and irregular periods, mood swings, sore joints and vaginal dryness.

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