Perimenopause is the transitional phase before a woman enters menopause. During this period, the female body undergoes a series of physiological and hormonal changes that can trigger a host of physical, mental, and emotional symptoms.
But what exactly are the symptoms associated with perimenopause? How long does it last? How can health care professionals, including pharmacists, help alleviate common problems that occur during this little-understood transition?
Let’s take a closer look at perimenopause.
Perimenopause, sometimes called premenopause, is the period that precedes menopause, which is defined by a complete cessation of menstruation for at least 12 months.
Perimenopause generally begins when a woman is in her mid-forties, though it can begin earlier or later, and usually lasts four to eight years. During this time, estrogen levels gradually decline. Did you know that genetics play an important role in determining when perimenopause begins? Talking to your mother and grandmothers about when their symptoms began will give you a clearer idea of what to expect.
Although their quantity and intensity vary from one woman to another, this transition period is often accompanied by symptoms typically associated with menopause. Here are the most common signs of perimenopause:
Good to know
During perimenopause, a woman’s menstrual cycle may remain regular despite the onset of other symptoms.
Caroline, now 42, began to notice the first symptoms of perimenopause at the age of 38. She asked her friends and family about it, but nobody could give her the answers she needed. She’d had no idea that the first phase of menopause could begin so early in life.
"When I turned 38, I started experiencing menopause-like symptoms, but my periods were still regular. My PMS symptoms got worse, I had sore breasts and headaches, I had trouble concentrating, and my libido dropped: I thought menopause had set in ahead of schedule. Fortunately, my pharmacist was able to explain that my symptoms were likely signs of perimenopause."
If you think you may be perimenopausal, we strongly recommend that you book an appointment with a health care professional, such as a family doctor, specialist, or specialized nurse practitioner. In addition, you should book a consultation if you are experiencing the following symptoms:
Certain hormonal and non-hormonal medications can reduce the intensity of your symptoms, but there are also some lifestyle habits that can help you live well during perimenopause. These include quitting smoking, reducing your alcohol consumption, eating a healthy and varied diet, exercising regularly, and practising good sleep hygiene.
What’s more, your pharmacy team is available to provide support and guidance during perimenopause. Here are a few ways they can help:
For more information on perimenopause, or for answers to your questions about menopause, consult your pharmacist today. They can be wonderful allies when it comes to managing perimenopause and everything that comes with it.
