September is Perimenopause Awareness Month, a time to help women better understand a natural stage of life that can bring changes to their periods, sleep, mood, energy, and overall health.
For some women, these changes can be confusing. A period may suddenly become unpredictable. Sleep may become more difficult. Hot flashes, mood changes, or problems concentrating may seem to appear out of nowhere.
These symptoms can be part of perimenopause, the transition leading up to menopause.
What Is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause means “around menopause.” It is the time when a woman's body begins transitioning toward menopause and the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen.
Perimenopause commonly begins during a woman's 40s, although some women notice changes earlier. The experience is different for every woman and can last for several years.
Menopause is reached after a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, when there is no other medical cause for the absence of periods.
Your Period May Be One of the First Signs
Changes in the menstrual cycle are common during perimenopause.
Periods may become shorter or longer, and they may occur more or less frequently. Some women experience heavier or lighter bleeding, while others begin skipping periods.
You may also notice changes in your menstrual flow, including spotting or differences in bleeding.
Although menstrual changes can occur during perimenopause, don't automatically assume that every change is caused by it. Talk with your healthcare provider about unusual, very heavy, or concerning bleeding.
Hot Flashes, Night Sweats and Sleep Problems
Hot flashes are another common symptom. A hot flash can feel like a sudden wave of warmth or heat, particularly around the face, neck and chest.
When hot flashes happen while you're sleeping, they are often called night sweats. For some women, night sweats can be strong enough to wake them or soak their sleepwear and bedding.
Perimenopause may also make it more difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. Poor sleep can contribute to daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and changes in mood.
Some women also experience changes in body composition or weight as they age, as well as joint or muscle discomfort.
Perimenopause Can Affect Your Mood and Concentration
The changes aren't always physical.
Some women notice that they are more irritable, anxious, emotional, or overwhelmed than they used to be. Others experience difficulty concentrating or remembering things, sometimes described as brain fog.
These experiences can be frustrating, particularly when you don't realize that the menopause transition may be contributing to them.
Changes in mood can have many causes, however, so significant anxiety, depression, or other changes in your mental health should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Vaginal and Urinary Changes
Changes in estrogen can also affect vaginal and urinary health.
Women may experience vaginal dryness, irritation, or discomfort during sex. Some women notice changes in sexual desire.
Urinary symptoms can occur as well, including more frequent or urgent urination. Changes in the vaginal and urinary tissues may also contribute to an increased risk of urinary tract infections for some women.
These symptoms may feel uncomfortable to discuss, but they are important health concerns. Your healthcare provider is there to help.
You Don't Have to Just “Deal With It”
One of the most important messages during Perimenopause Awareness Month is that women should feel comfortable talking about what they are experiencing.
If your periods, sleep, mood, sexual health, or other symptoms are affecting your daily life, talk with your healthcare provider. Some symptoms associated with perimenopause can also be caused by other health conditions, so getting the right evaluation matters.
Treatment and management options are available. What is appropriate depends on your symptoms, health history, age, and individual needs.
Pay Attention to Your Body
Perimenopause is a normal stage of life, but that doesn't mean you have to ignore symptoms that are affecting your health.
Consider keeping track of changes in your menstrual cycle and symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, sleep difficulties, mood changes, and vaginal or urinary concerns. Bringing that information to your next appointment can help you have a more productive conversation with your healthcare provider.
This September, Perimenopause Awareness Month is a good reminder to listen to your body, ask questions, and make your health a priority.
Christ Community Health Services provides women's health and primary care services to support women through different stages of life. If you're experiencing changes that may be related to perimenopause, talk with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and the options available to you.
Make Your Health a Priority
Perimenopause is a normal stage of life, but that doesn't mean you have to ignore symptoms that are affecting your health.
Consider keeping track of changes in your menstrual cycle and symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, sleep difficulties, mood changes, and vaginal or urinary concerns. Bringing that information to your appointment can help you have a more productive conversation with your healthcare provider.
Christ Community Health Services provides women's health and primary care services to support women through different stages of life. If you're experiencing changes that may be related to perimenopause, talk with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and the options available to you.
Make an Appointment
You don't have to navigate these changes alone. Our healthcare providers are available to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and help determine what may be causing your symptoms.
Schedule an appointment with Christ Community Health Services today.
Call (901) 842-3160 to make an appointment.