The changes women experience when in perimenopause — the years before the onset of menopause — can be surprising and/or unpleasant.
Symptoms may be many, few or hardly noticeable. Perimenopause is a time of transition that may be marked by anxiety, brain fog, changes to hair and skin, chills, headaches, heart palpitations, hot flashes. Other symptoms might include joint and muscle pain, menstrual cycle irregularities, mood swings, night sweats, perspiration, sexual dysfunction, disturbances to sleep patterns, vaginal dryness, weight gain and more, as the activity of follicles within the ovary decreases.
Dr. Amy Robertson, FACOG, MSCP, an obstetrician/gynecologist with CommonSpirit Academy Women’s Healthcare Associates at 6071 E. Woodmen Road, Suite 405, in Colorado Springs, says that the symptoms of perimenopause can last an average of seven years but may continue up to 20 years. Among the treatments available: estrogen therapy, antidepressants, seizure medications, and some bladder incontinence medications.
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“Estrogen and progesterone in an oral and/or patch form can significantly help with symptoms, said Dr. Robertson. “A new oral medication called fezolinetant can help as well. Most over-the-counter products — black cohosh, isoflavones, soy-based products) may help for a time, but often the effect wears off.”
Dr. Robertson, who received her medical degree from University of North Carolina considers herself a partner of her patients on their health journeys, providing medical expertise along with compassion and care that benefits her patients’ physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
According to Dr. Robertson, the average age for perimenopause is typically 48-54 years with the condition lasting between one year and three. The average age and length of perimenopause can vary, however.
“Some medical conditions can cause the early onset of perimenopause, including surgery to remove both ovaries; genetic factors, such as Turner syndrome, hypothyroidism, type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus, HIV, metabolic syndrome and premature ovarian insufficiency,” said Dr. Robertson.
The transition from perimenopause to menopause is marked by the one-year anniversary of a woman’s final menstrual period. During this time, there are lifestyle changes that can be beneficial:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapies
- Drinking less alcohol and caffeine
- Eating a healthy diet of beans, fish, fruit, nuts, vegetables, and whole grains, with limited fat, salt, and sugar
- Exercising to lift your mood, and support your bones and heart
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Quitting smoking
- Regulating your sleep schedule
- Using cooling techniques
Dr. Robertson recommends medical intervention any time your cycle is irregular, and you are experiencing symptoms of perimenopause.
“It’s important to realize that perimenopause hits all women differently,” said Dr. Robertson. “The condition can pose health risks ranging from an increase in fat in the central part of the body and decrease in lean body mass, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline. Women should support each other during this natural part of life, exhibiting patience and kindness.”
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