Key Takeaways
- Perimenopause is the time before menopause when your hormone levels start to change, and it can last for several years.
- Common symptoms include irregular periods, hot flashes, trouble sleeping, mood changes and a lower sex drive.
- Many symptoms are normal, but very heavy bleeding, bleeding between periods or symptoms that disrupt daily life should be checked.
- Treatments, including hormone therapy and lifestyle changes, can make this stage much easier.
- Prima CARE's gynecology and primary care providers serving Fall River, Swansea and Tiverton help women understand and manage perimenopause with personal, respectful care. Request an appointment to talk about your symptoms.
Request an Appointment With Prima CARE
What Is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause means 'around menopause.' It is the transition time when your ovaries slowly make less estrogen, a key female hormone. Menopause is reached when you have gone 12 months in a row without a period.
According to Cleveland Clinic's overview of menopause, the average age of menopause in the U.S. is 52. Perimenopause can begin 8 to 10 years before menopause, and you can be in perimenopause for several months or several years.
Common Perimenopause Symptoms
Cleveland Clinic's guide to perimenopause lists irregular periods, low libido, hot flashes and changes in mood as common symptoms. Here is what many women notice:
Changes to Your Period
- Periods that come closer together or farther apart
- Heavier or lighter bleeding than usual
- Skipped periods
- Worse premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms
Body Changes
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Vaginal dryness or discomfort during sex
- Needing to pee more often
Mood and Mind Changes
- Irritability or mood swings
- Feeling anxious or down
- Trouble focusing or 'brain fog'
- Lower interest in sex
Cleveland Clinic points out that some perimenopause symptoms, like sweating or muscle tension, can also happen with anxiety and other conditions. That is why it helps to talk with a provider about what you are feeling.
What's Normal vs. When to Call Your Doctor
| Usually Normal in Perimenopause | Call Your Provider |
|---|---|
| Periods that are a little early, late or skipped | Very heavy bleeding that soaks through pads or tampons quickly |
| Occasional hot flashes or night sweats | Bleeding between periods or after sex |
| Some trouble sleeping | Any bleeding after you have gone 12 months without a period |
| Mild mood changes | Mood changes that make it hard to work, sleep or enjoy life |
| Slow changes over months or years | Menopause-like symptoms before age 40 |
Cleveland Clinic recommends seeing a provider if your symptoms interfere with daily activities, including emotional symptoms that make it hard to function day to day.
How Perimenopause Is Diagnosed
There is no single test for perimenopause. Cleveland Clinic explains that a provider usually decides you are transitioning to menopause based on a physical exam, your symptoms, your age and your medical history.
Your provider may also order blood work to rule out other causes, such as thyroid problems. Prima CARE patients can get lab work through Prima CARE's diagnostic radiology and lab services.
Treatment Options for Perimenopause Symptoms
Medical Treatments
According to Cleveland Clinic, hormone therapy can raise hormone levels and help with symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Other options your provider may discuss include:
- Low-dose birth control pills to even out periods
- Vaginal estrogen for dryness
- Non-hormone medicines for hot flashes or mood
Lifestyle Changes
- Dress in layers and keep your bedroom cool
- Limit alcohol, caffeine and spicy food if they trigger hot flashes
- Get regular exercise, including strength training for bone health
- Stick to a regular sleep schedule
- Try stress-relief habits like walking, stretching or deep breathing
If weight changes are a concern during this stage, Prima CARE's physician-supervised weight loss program can help.
Perimenopause Is a Good Time to Check In on Your Overall Health
As estrogen drops, the risk of bone loss and heart disease starts to rise. A yearly well-woman exam is a great time to talk about bone density testing, blood pressure, cholesterol and other screenings with your Prima CARE primary care provider.
Get Personal Perimenopause Care From Prima CARE in Fall River, Swansea and Tiverton
Perimenopause is a normal part of life, but you do not have to push through it alone. Prima CARE can help you understand your symptoms and find treatments that let you feel like yourself again.
Schedule a menopause care visit with Prima CARE Gynecology and request an appointment through the Prima CARE patient portal, or find the phone number for a Prima CARE office near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age does perimenopause usually start?
Many women start noticing perimenopause symptoms in their 40s. Since the average age of menopause in the U.S. is 52 and perimenopause can begin 8 to 10 years earlier, some women notice changes in their early 40s or even late 30s.
How do I know if I'm in perimenopause?
Changes in your period, along with hot flashes, sleep problems or mood changes in your 40s, are common signs. A provider can confirm it with an exam and a review of your symptoms and health history.
Where can I find a women's health doctor near me in Fall River, Swansea or Tiverton?
Prima CARE has gynecology and primary care providers serving Fall River, Swansea and Tiverton, RI. You can request an appointment through the patient portal or call your nearest office.
Can you get pregnant during perimenopause?
Yes. You can still get pregnant until you have reached menopause. Talk with your provider about birth control if you do not want to become pregnant.
Is hormone therapy safe for perimenopause?
Hormone therapy is safe and helpful for many women, but it is not right for everyone. Your provider will review your health history and help you weigh the benefits and risks.
