Whether you are just starting menopause or are nearing the end of the transition, you may find yourself with several questions about what to expect as you move through the hormonal stages of this complex time in your life. Lets take a few minutes to talk about what you may experience during each phase of menopause.
Perimenopause
Perimenopause is the time leading up to your last period where periods may become irregular, either more or less frequently. A woman is considered in perimenopause for one year after her last period. During this time, the hallmark symptoms of menopause usually begin, or become more prominent. Fluctuating progesterone and estrogen hormones from the ovaries produce a number of symptoms that can be somewhat troublesome. Be on the lookout for these symptoms, which can range in severity between women:
- Hot flashes
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Difficulty sleeping and concentrating
- Vaginal dryness
These symptoms may also come and go as you move into actual menopause. Perimenopause can last up to ten years for some women. Speak with your doctorabout
vitamins and supplements that may help you through this often difficult time. The Department of Health and Human Services provides a free menopause symptom tracker that you can fill out and give to your doctor to make treating your symptoms much easier.
Menopause
Women who have reached this stage have been free from periods for at least one year. During this time, many women still exhibit the symptoms of fluctuating hormones that were present during perimenopause. If the symptoms become worse or you find that you are having a difficult time handling them, make an appointment to discuss these with your doctor. There are many treatment methods available to reduce the severity of your symptoms .
Never feel that you are alone going through menopause. While not every woman suffers through this change of life, all women do go through the process. It may help to talk to your friends or join a support group, either in person or on the internet. There are always women available to talk with about this often confusing time of your life.
