Perimenopause - Rebalance Hormone Health

Perimenopause

Perimenopause refers to the time leading up to menopause, when a woman's body makes the natural transition toward permanent infertility. It's the period when estrogen levels begin to fluctuate and decline as ovulation becomes irregular and menstrual cycles change.

The duration of perimenopause varies. It usually begins for women in their late 40s, but it can start earlier or later. On average, this menopausal transition phase lasts about 4 years, but it ranges anywhere from a few months to a decade.

Some key things to know:

• Symptoms are caused by hormone fluctuations and can include hot flashes, night sweats, sleep problems, mood changes, vaginal dryness, irregular periods, and more.
• It ends when a woman has gone 12 months without her period. At that point, she has gone through menopause.
• Risks may include bone loss if untreated, as well as heart disease and other chronic conditions. Hormone therapy can help alleviate symptoms and reduce risks for some women.
• Not all women have major issues during perimenopause. The experience can vary a lot. Lifestyle choices related to diet, exercise, sleep, and stress reduction can help ease this transition.

Rather than waking up one day in menopause, perimenopause gives the body and the woman time to gradually adapt to lowering estrogen levels. Tracking symptoms and talking to your doctor at Rebalance Hormone Health can provide the information you need to make informed choices about managing this shift. With an understanding of what to expect, healthy habits, and proper support, many women are able to transition through perimenopause feeling empowered.