Am I in Perimenopause or Menopause?

As women, we are forever ripping and running that we ignore our bodies while taking care of everyone else. If there is one thing that I would like to be the outcome of this blog, is for us to do better by ourselves. I have lost way too many people, who just collapse and die. As women, there are so many things going on inside and majority of us do not prioritize our health. In the US, 1 out of 5 women die of heart disease. That is a downright scary statistic. We don’t know we have it until we do.

The question most of us ask is, how do I know if I am in perimenopause/menopause? How can I tell? What are the signs of menopause? Below are some of the more common signs, but as I’m finding out on my own journey, is that women are most definitely not a monolith. I have not had a period since my partial hysterectomy so anything in relation to that, I don’t identify. I highly encourage seeking a proper diagnosis from a medical professional.

1. Perimenopause: The Prelude to Change: Perimenopause, often referred to as the “menopausal transition,” typically begins in a woman’s 40s but can start earlier for some. It’s a gradual process marked by fluctuating hormone levels as the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen. Key features of perimenopause include:

• Irregular Periods: Menstrual cycles may become irregular, with changes in flow and duration.
  • Symptoms: Women may experience hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, vaginal dryness, and changes in libido.
  • Fertility: While fertility declines during perimenopause, pregnancy is still possible, albeit less likely.
  • Duration: Perimenopause can last for several years, typically culminating in menopause, but the duration varies for each individual.

• Menopause: The Milestone Moment: Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years and is defined as the cessation of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months. It usually occurs around the age of 51, but the timing can vary widely. Key features of menopause include:

• Cessation of Menstruation: Menstrual periods cease entirely, signaling the end of ovulation and fertility.
  • Symptoms: Menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and vaginal dryness may persist but often diminish over time.
  • Bone Health: With the decline in estrogen levels, women are at increased risk of osteoporosis, making bone health a priority.
  • Hormonal Changes: Estrogen and progesterone levels remain low, leading to changes in the body’s hormonal balance.

• Navigating the Transition: While perimenopause and menopause bring significant changes, it’s essential to remember that they are natural stages of life, not medical conditions. However, the symptoms experienced during this transition can vary widely in intensity and duration from woman to woman. Here are some tips for navigating the transition with grace and resilience:

• Stay Informed: Educate yourself about the signs and symptoms of perimenopause and menopause to better understand what your body is experiencing.
  • Prioritize Self-Care: Focus on self-care practices like regular exercise, healthy eating, stress management, and adequate sleep to support overall well-being.
  • Seek Support: Connect with other women going through similar experiences, whether through support groups, online forums, or with friends and family.
  • Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you’re experiencing bothersome symptoms or have concerns about perimenopause or menopause, seek guidance from a healthcare professional. They can offer personalized advice, recommend treatment options, and address any underlying health issues.

Note: If you don’t already, I suggest following Dr Mindy Pelz on YouTube or Dr Mary Claire on Instagram. This is not a paid ad, I follow both and get a wealth of information from the two Doctors.