Perimenopause: Signs, Symptoms, and What to do About it

Did you know that menopause doesn’t appear overnight? Perimenopause is the natural period of transition leading into menopause. While menopause is the moment you reach 12 months without a period, perimenopause is a lengthy, physiological process that can last anywhere from 4-12 years!

As hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone fluctuate, women can experience a number of irksome symptoms. For most women this begins in their 40s, but some begin experiencing perimenopause symptoms as early as their 30s.

Wondering if you’re moving into perimenopause? Here are some telltale signs to look out for:

Heavy or irregular periods

Hot flashes

Weight gain and changes in fat metabolism

Mood changes

Vaginal dryness

Brain fog

Sleep disturbances

While the changes you experience during perimenopause may range from annoying to debilitating, there are also less obvious changes that can have a significant impact on your long-term health. Metabolic changes can increase your risk for heart disease and Type II diabetes, and hormonal decline can lead to a significant loss in muscle and bone mass if left unchecked. Because of this, it’s important to discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider to make sure you’re doing the right things to protect your long-term wellness.

In the following video, Dr. McRae goes into greater detail about navigating the perimenopausal phase.

The good news is that, while there is light at the end of the tunnel (hello, menopause!), there are also ways to feel better during the transitional phase of perimenopause. From hormone therapy to lifestyle changes, working with a provider who can meet you where you are and understand your concerns can make perimenopause a lot more pleasant, and can protect you from related chronic health issues.

If you think you may be in perimenopause and you want to feel like your old self, Vitality is here to help! We’d be happy to schedule a discovery call with you. During this call, we can discuss your symptoms in more detail and come up with a plan tailored specifically for you.

DISCLAIMER: The information in this blog is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content is for general informational purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/health professional