Symptoms of perimenopause and menopause are often the exact same. Just what’s the difference, and how can we know which is which? Perimenopause is literally the years before menopause occurs. For many women it can last as long as 10 to 15 years. For many others the symptoms of perimenopause come on seemingly overnight.
Menopause
Menopause, so far as the medical community is concerned, formally takes place when you have not had a period for one year, and 51 is the typical age women experience menopause. Remember, however, this is just an average and unique girls will experience the symptoms of perimenopause and then the beginning of menopause differently. Your symptoms of perimenopause, in addition to menopause, could happen years earlier or years later than the average.
Research
One way, and most likely the best way, to gauge the age you may experience symptoms of perimenopause, and then melancholy, is by taking a look at your mother and older sisters. When did they start to experience the symptoms of perimenopause? This may be a guide for you, unless they’ve had a hysterectomy or other reason for experiencing menopause.
They may also be a fantastic source for help in controlling your symptoms of perimenopause. What worked for them might very well work for you. What Are The Signs and Symptoms of Perimenopause? Period changes. Probably one of the first signs of perimenopause you may notice will be changes in your menstrual cycle. Periods may be shorter, longer, lighter, heavier, or you can have spotting between periods. You might even skip a time now and then.
Fuzzy thinking
Feeling overwhelmed with ideas or duties, inability to concentrate, stressed out by life. These may be symptoms of perimenopause that may develop, usually due to hormone fluctuations. Don’t let anxiety or fear keep you from seeking help. Depression, moderate or mild panic/anxiety attacks, irritability, forgetfulness or mood swings are all signs of perimenopause a considerable number of girls report. Hot flashes and night sweats that can subsequently cause sleeplessness are common symptoms of perimenopause. 1 complaint shared women who have symptoms of perimenopause. This may result in discomfort with sex but, fortunately, it’s among the easiest to cure, possibly with over-the-counter lubricants or prescription relief if it’s more serious.
Even if your problem is not severe, always speak with your healthcare provider because in some situations it might be an indication of something serious. Insomnia. This is sometimes difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep or waking up often due to hot flashes or nervousness.
Final note
Stress can also improve your symptoms of perimenopause. Decreased libido. Not so surprising when you consider the rest of the signs of perimenopause you might be experiencing. You often just do not feel comfortable or desirable so you’ve got no curiosity about intimacy. However, hormonal alterations and vaginal dryness are usually the reason for this, so speak with your health care provider and get real relief quickly.
