The menopause refers to the time when a woman stops having periods. Perimenopause relates to the time leading up to then when women can encounter a range of different symptoms as their body adapts to the changing levels of hormones in their system. This is a natural part of getting older but can be a challenging time to deal with. Thanks to many public figures talking about their experiences there is a better understanding of the menopause.
It is not always obvious when you are entering the perimenopausal phase. The symptoms can overlap with the symptoms of other health conditions so it is worth checking out any changes that you may be coping with, with your GP.
People can develop perimenopausal symptoms and enter menopause at any age but in the main tends to be between the ages of 45 and 55 years of age.
- Changes in the pattern of your periods
- Sudden feelings of hot or cold in your body
- Changes in your skin, hair and nails
- Issues in sleeping including night sweats and needing to go to the toilet more frequently
- Changes in your weight
- Headaches and migraine
- Fatigue and changes in your energy levels
- Emotional changes including feelings of low mood, anxiety and loss of self confidence
- General aches and pains in your body
- Reduced sex drive and vaginal dryness or discomfort
Your GP surgery may provide you with blood tests to check your hormone levels and give you the option of Hormone Replacement Therapy or HRT for short
HRT aims to replenish the hormones that naturally diminish with the menopause. There are different types of HRT your GP will be able to talk you through these options if you feel that HRT is for you.
