Perimenopause is the transition stage of a woman's life that signals her entry to menopause. It is during this stage that the ovaries start to lessen their production of estrogen and usually start from the late 30s to the 40s. This time is characterized by hormone imbalances and known as a period of emotional distress for most women. Anxiety is commonly seen in women who see this period as a precursor to the end of their fertility. It may be as short as a few months of continue for as long as ten years in some women.
Common symptoms of perimenopause include irregular periods, heavy bleeding, vaginal changes and changes in sexual drive, mood swings, headaches and irritability. Problems in memory, difficulty in multitasking, anxiety, fatigue and depressions are also some signs of perimenopause that every woman should take note of. These symptoms can be relieved with the use of low-dose hormone replacements and birth control skin patch and vaginal rings. Exercise, adopting a healthier diet filled with vegetables, fruits, with low fat, sugar and salt, as well as stress reduction can also help in reducing the symptoms of perimenopause. Some women may also be prescribed antidepressants for severe mood swings.
Pregnancy and Perimenopause
You can still get pregnant even while undergoing perimenopause. Women are advised to take some form of contraception if they do not wish to get pregnant at this stage. However, for those who want to get pregnant even at this age, difficulties in doing so can be treated with a variety of fertility treatments to ensure the success of fertilization.
