Perimenopause

Perimenopause, also known as the menopausal transition, is the period leading up to menopause, the point at which a woman permanently ceases menstruation. It is a natural phase in a woman's reproductive life, typically beginning in her 40s, but can start as early as the 30s. During this phase, the ovaries gradually begin to produce less estrogen, leading to changes in the menstrual cycle that can be unpredictable. Common symptoms include irregular periods, hot flashes, sleep disturbances, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. These symptoms vary in intensity and duration from woman to woman.

As estrogen levels fluctuate and decline, women may also experience other physiological changes such as a decrease in bone density, an altered lipid profile potentially increasing cardiovascular risk, and changes in body composition with an increased fat-to-muscle ratio. While perimenopause is a normal transition, it can cause significant discomfort for some women, and they may seek medical advice for symptom management. Healthcare providers might recommend lifestyle changes, hormone replacement therapy, or other treatments to alleviate symptoms. Ultimately, perimenopause culminates in menopause, which is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, marking the end of a woman's reproductive years.