Women typically enter premenopause around 45 years of age.
Premenopausal symptoms include a wide variety of symptoms, both distinct and more general (such as irritability). Separately, the symptoms may be vague, but together, they can clearly indicate the onset of premenopause.
The most indicative symptom is a changing menstruation cycle. Periods may come more or less frequently and last a longer or shorter amount of time. Hot flashes are another symptom that is highly indicative of premenopause. When both of these factors are present along with mood swings and irritability, it’s likely a woman is in premenopause.
Other symptoms of premenopause, shown in the keyword cloud to the right, include weight gain, water retention, headaches, and depression. Not all women experience these symptoms, however.
As you can imagine and have probably heard, these symptoms can be uncomfortable. Therefore, many women try treatments or other solutions to make the symptoms go away. Many people have opinions and “cure-alls” for premenopausal symptoms and advertise them online. Remember, however, that you are dealing with your health. Always consult your gynecologist before starting any treatments or considering surgeries.
How Long Does Premenopause Last?
Premenopause typically lasts 3 to 6 years.
Is Perimenopause a Disease?
No, perimenopause is not a disease. It is simply a changing of the body’s reproductive system. It can be accompanied with uncomfortable and sometimes debilitating symptoms, but each woman has a different experience.
How Will This Affect Me In the Future?
Menopause releases you from the aches and pains of monthly menstruation. Additionally, after menopause, you no longer need to worry about getting pregnant. Although perimenopause can be a difficult stage, it will pass, and you will most likely enjoy the benefits.
Did I Do Anything To Cause This?
No, menopause is unavoidable. Certain factors, such as having a hysterectomy, smoking, not having any pregnancies, or a history of pelvic radiation or chemotherapy may accelerate its onset. However, menopause is bound to happen sooner or later.
Should I Go To a Doctor for my Symptoms?
If your symptoms are severe and disruptive, your gynecologist may be able to help. Additionally, if you experience unusually heavy bleeding, a menstruation that lasts more than 9 days, or spotting in between cycles, you should see your gynecologist ASAP.
Is Premenopause Dangerous?
No, premenopause is not dangerous. The need for surgery is rare. More commonly, hormone replacement therapy is advised to help ease the fluctuation of hormones. This is usually a pill taken daily, but varies with your symptoms.
In this 5-part series, we cover all stages of menopause and discuss symptoms, treatment, and what to expect.
Our next article will cover the physiological changes of menopause.
