Perimenopause | Perimenopause Symptoms | Perimenopause Treatment

Some basic questions and answers about Perimenopause…..what is, what it isn’t and how to deal with it…..

What is perimenopause?

Perimenopause is a condition that precedes menopause that is caused by imbalances and fluctuations in hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.

What are some symptoms of perimenopause?

There are a host of symptoms related to perimenopause, and some of them include: hot flashes, sweating, vaginal dryness, change in menstrual cycle, depression, anxiety, insomnia, irritability, reduction of libido, breast tenderness and decrease in energy level.

What is the common age for developing perimenopause?

Most of the time, perimenopause occurs in women between the ages of 30 and 45.

How can I alleviate discomfort from perimenopause?

There are different ways you can deal with the uncomfortable symptoms caused by perimenopause. Hormone replacement therapy can be a powerful remedy that your doctor can implement. Because hormone replacement therapy can cause side effects and may not be for everyone, you may want to look into alternative remedies. There are lots of herbs such as red clover, black cohosh, sage and dong quai that can alleviate your discomfort from hot flashes and night sweats. Chamomile and St. John’s Wort can be used to decrease irritability and promote serenity. Any professional trained in alternative medicine can educate you further on which herbs may help you.

Always check with your doctor before using herbal remedies to ensure safety.

Other risk-free ways that can be beneficial to good health and the reduction of symptoms can include regular exercise, aromatherapy, massage, and meditation. A lubricant for vaginal dryness such as KY Jelly can dramatically decrease discomfort during sex. And taking cool showers can be a great way to remedy uncomfortable sweating and hot flashes.

Is pregnancy possible during perimenopause?

Yes it is. Because perimenopause causes a reduction or fluctuation in ovulation rather than stopping it completely, pregnancy is a possibility.