Menopause and Perimenopause: Symptoms and Treatments

Menopause and perimenopause are normal stages in a woman’s life. Perimenopause is the time before menopause when the body gradually produces less estrogen.  Menopause happens when periods stop completely, usually between the ages of 45 and 55. This phase can begin several years earlier and cause various body changes. These symptoms may impact daily activities and overall well-being. Although menopause is a natural process, proper care and management can help make this transition easier.

At RISAA IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi helps women handle menopause and perimenopause with the right care. She offers treatments like hormone therapy, lifestyle changes, and other solutions to ease symptoms.Her aim is to enhance health and help women go through this phase smoothly. In this blog, we will talk about the signs, tests, treatment options, and more. Stay with us to learn how to take care of your health during this time.

What Is Perimenopause?

Between menopause and perimenopause, we are going to know about perimenopause first. Perimenopause means the transition phase before menopause. It happens when the body slowly reduces estrogen production. This stage can start in a woman’s 40s or even earlier and may continue for several years. During perimenopause, periods may become unpredictable. Symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, and trouble sleeping are common. These changes are a normal part of aging as the body transitions toward the end of reproductive years.

Perimenopause Age

Perimenopause typically starts in a woman’s 40s. However, it can also start in the mid-30s. The timing of perimenopause is different for every woman and may continue for several years. On average, this phase lasts around four years but can go up to eight years. During this time, women might have irregular periods, hot flashes, and mood swings. These symptoms indicate the body’s transition toward menopause, which usually occurs between ages 45 and 55.

What Is Menopause?

Between menopause and perimenopause, Menopause meaning In hindi is known as रजोनिवृत्ति (rajonivṛtti). When a woman’s menstrual periods permanently stop.It marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. This natural phase usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55. It occurs due to a drop in hormone levels, mainly estrogen and progesterone, produced by the ovaries. Common signs include hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and vaginal dryness. A woman is considered to have reached menopause after 12 months without a period.

Menopause Age

Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. The average age is around 51. Some women may go through menopause sooner or later than expected. Genetics, overall health, and daily habits can affect when it happens. For example, smoking is known to cause an earlier onset. Knowing these factors can help women be more prepared for this natural phase of life.

Perimenopause and Symptoms

Perimenopause is the phase before menopause. In this phase, the body slowly produces less estrogen.During this phase, women might experience physical and health-related changes. These changes can affect daily life and vary for each person. Menopause and perimenopause symptoms are different. Let’s see what are the perimenopause symptoms:

What are the 34 Symptoms of Perimenopause?

Perimenopause can bring about a variety of symptoms as the body transitions toward menopause. Here are 34 commonly reported symptoms:

1. Hot flashes
2. Night sweats
3. Irregular periods
4. Mood swings
5. Sleep disturbances
6. Vaginal dryness
7. Decreased libido
8. Weight gain
9. Breast tenderness
10. Bloating
11. Hair loss or thinning
12. Memory lapses
13. Difficulty concentrating
14. Dizziness
15. Fatigue
16. Anxiety
17. Depression
18. Irritability
19. Joint pain
20. Muscle aches
21. Headaches
22. Heart palpitations
23. Dry skin
24. Itchy skin
25. Tingling sensations
26. Electric shock sensations
27. Digestive issues
28. Allergies
29. Changes in body odor
30. Brittle nails
31. Burning mouth syndrome
32. Gum problems
33. Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
34. Loss of bone density

Note: These symptoms can differ in strength and how long they last for each woman. It’s important to consult with your doctor if you experience any concerning changes. You can also consult our Senior Obs & Gynae, Dr. Rita Bakshi at RISAA IVF. 

Symptoms Of Perimenopause At 44

At age 44, many women enter perimenopause. During this phase, changes in hormones can cause different symptoms. These may include uneven periods, hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, trouble sleeping, and vaginal dryness. Every woman experiences this differently. Some may have mild discomfort, while others may face more serious challenges. If symptoms affect daily life, consulting a doctor is the best possible way for relief.

Signs Perimenopause Is Ending

Perimenopause ends when the body fully transitions into menopause. Signs include longer gaps between periods until they stop completely, fewer mood swings, and improved sleep. Some women may continue to have hot flashes and night sweats. But for others, these symptoms start to fade. Vaginal dryness and frequent headaches can also be signs of this transition. Each woman’s experience is different, and consulting a doctor can help manage any discomfort.

Perimenopause Test

Diagnosing perimenopause involves evaluating a woman’s age, menstrual history, and symptoms. It’s important to note that no single test can confirm perimenopause. However, doctors may consider doing the following tests:

• Medical History Review: The doctor will ask about the changes in your periods. Additionally, they will ask about the symptoms you’re experiencing.
• Physical Examination: They will assess your overall health. A general check-up helps to find out other health conditions.
• Hormone Level Testing: Blood tests check estrogen and FSH levels, but hormones can fluctuate daily.
• Thyroid Function Tests: These check thyroid hormones, as thyroid issues can cause similar symptoms.

Consulting with your doctor is important to determine the most appropriate assessments based on individual health needs.

Perimenopause Treatment

Perimenopause treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving daily life. Different options are available depending on individual needs.  

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): HRT helps balance estrogen and progesterone. It can reduce hot flashes and vaginal dryness.
• Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management can help. Additionally, yoga and meditation may improve sleep and mood swings.  
• Non-Hormonal Medications: Some antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs) help with hot flashes. Other medicines like gabapentin can also relieve certain symptoms.  
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This therapy helps manage mood swings, anxiety, and stress. It also improves mental well-being.  
• Dietary Supplements: Some women find relief with calcium, vitamin D, and herbal remedies.

Note: Each woman’s experience is different. A doctor can help choose the best treatment based on your symptoms and medical history. Consult the best gynecologist in Delhi, Dr. Rita Bakshi at RISAA IVF.

Symptoms With Menopause

What Are The 1st Signs Of Menopause? Menopause is a natural phase when menstrual cycles stop permanently. It happens due to hormonal changes, mainly a drop in estrogen and progesterone. Menopause and perimenopause symptoms are different. Many women experience menopause symptoms, which can affect daily life. These symptoms vary for each person, and some may face mild changes, while others have more intense effects. 

Common Symptoms Of The Menopause:

• Irregular periods: Menstruation becomes unpredictable before stopping completely.
• Hot flashes: Sudden warmth in the upper body, often with sweating. 
• Mood changes: Increased irritability, anxiety, or depression.
• Sleep problems: Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
• Vaginal dryness: Reduced moisture leading to discomfort or pain.
• Weight gain: Metabolism slows which makes weight management harder.
• Thinning hair: Hair may become weaker or fall out more.

Menopause Symptoms Age 47

Menopause typically occurs between ages 45 and 55, with the average age around 51. However, some women may experience menopause earlier or later. At age 47, many women are in perimenopause. They may also start noticing symptoms due to hormonal changes. Common symptoms include irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.

Signs Of Menopause At 40

Experiencing menopause at age 40 is considered early. It is often referred to as premature menopause. Signs include irregular periods, hot flashes, and vaginal dryness. However, it may also include additional concerns such as decreased fertility and increased risk of osteoporosis. It’s important for women experiencing early menopause to consult with a doctor to manage symptoms and address potential health implications.

What Signals The End Of Menopause?

Menopause is defined as occurring 12 months after a woman’s last menstrual period. The end of menopause is signaled by the cessation of menopausal symptoms. Also, it can vary in duration and intensity among women. Some women may continue to experience symptoms for several years after their last period. However others may find that symptoms diminish more quickly. Regular follow-ups with a doctor can help manage ongoing symptoms and monitor overall health during this transition.

Menopause Tablets

Menopause brings many symptoms due to hormonal changes. Some medicines can help manage these. 

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) provides estrogen, sometimes with progesterone. It helps to reduce hot flashes and dryness, but it has risks. 
• Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) like raloxifene helps to protect bones. It also works like estrogen with fewer side effects. 
• Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs) such as paroxetine and venlafaxine. This helps with mood swings and hot flashes. This is a good option for those who cannot take HRT. 
• Gabapentin is mainly for seizures, and is also useful for reducing hot flashes. 
• Fezolinetant is a newer drug that targets brain receptors to control hot flashes.

These medicines are not to be taken without medical guidance. Always consult a doctor before using any treatment to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Menopause Treatment

Menopause can bring various symptoms due to hormonal changes. Several treatment options are available to manage these symptoms and improve quality of life. Some treatment options include the following:

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): It involves supplementing estrogen and progesterone. It helps to manage symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before going for any treatment.
• Non-Hormonal Medications: Certain antidepressants can help reduce hot flashes and mood swings. Medications like gabapentin are also effective in managing the symptoms.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Engaging in regular physical activity and maintaining a balanced diet can help manage menopausal symptoms. Practicing stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation also provides relief.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): It is a type of psychotherapy that helps individuals develop coping strategies. It is used to manage mood swings, anxiety, and depression linked to menopause.

It’s important to consult with a doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. It is best to choose a plan according to your individual needs and medical history.

Difference Between Menopause and Perimenopause

Menopause and perimenopause are two stages in a woman’s reproductive life. They mark the transition from fertility to infertility. Understanding their differences is crucial for effective health management.

Final Words

In this blog, we talked about menopause and perimenopause. We explained the symptoms and different treatment options. Every woman goes through this phase in her own way. Knowing the signs and treatments can help in managing health better.  

At RISAA IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi and her team provide expert care for women facing these changes. We offer hormone tests and personalized treatments. Our goal is to make this transition easier for you. If you have any symptoms, reach out to us. Call 95555 44421/22/23 or email [email protected] for expert advice.