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Perimenopause

Perimenopause is the stage that comes before menopause, marking the period that leads up to the official end of your reproductive years. This phase is marked by hormonal fluctuations and alterations in your ovaries, resulting in symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats.

While perimenopause is a natural part of aging, it often brings about various symptoms. These symptoms can be addressed through lifestyle adjustments, hormone therapy, and medical interventions.

At Forever Young, we provide comprehensive care and support to help you effectively manage the symptoms of perimenopause. 

Perimenopause and Menopause

Perimenopause and menopause are two different stages in a woman's reproductive journey, each characterized by specific hormonal and physiological changes.

Perimenopause is the process in which your body makes a gradual and natural transition to menopause. It usually starts a few years before menopause and can last for varying durations. Menopause marks the official end of your reproductive years.

You may enter perimenopause in your late 40s, but sometimes it may start in the 30s or early 40s as well. Although the average age for menopause is around 51, it can also occur earlier or later.

Both perimenopause and menopause involve hormonal fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels and symptoms tied to changes. However, after menopause, these hormone levels consistently remain low.

During perimenopause, you may experience irregular menstrual cycles along with other symptoms. On the other hand, after menopause, your menstrual cycle stops completely. Menopause is officially reached when a woman goes without a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. 

The symptoms you go through during perimenopause may persist into menopause, but their intensity and frequency are likely to diminish. Additionally, you may encounter new symptoms related to the prolonged effects of low estrogen, such as a risk of bone density loss.

Symptoms of Perimenopause

The symptoms you experience during perimenopause arise from disruptions in the levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones. These symptoms include:

  • Irregular menstrual cycles - This includes changes in the frequency, duration, and intensity of your periods. You may experience skipping periods or unusually heavy or prolonged bleeding.
  • Hot flashes and night sweats - This refers to the sudden, intense feelings of heat and warmth that spread across your body. Night sweats accompany hot flashes, occur during sleep, and may disrupt sleep patterns.
  • Mood and emotional changes - This can include increased irritability, mood swings, and heightened emotional sensitivity. You may also experience stress, anxiety, and depression.
  • Sleep disturbances - This may involve insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns.
  • Changes in libido - It can affect your sexual desire and arousal. You may also experience vaginal dryness, which can lead to discomfort during sex.
  • Fatigue and energy changes - This includes increased feelings of tiredness and exhaustion
  • Memory and concentration issues - This includes forgetfulness and difficulty focusing, often referred to as brain fog.
  • Weight gain - This may include changes in body composition due to low estrogen levels. You may experience an increased likelihood of fat gain around your abdomen area and loss of muscle tone and mass.
  • Joint and muscle pain - This may be accompanied by stiffness in the joints. 
  • Urinary changes - This includes increased frequency of urination or urinary urgency.

Perimenopause and Osteoporosis

Perimenopause is a natural process that is triggered by the gradual decline in ovarian function. The symptoms you experience during perimenopause result from hormonal changes. The most notable hormonal change is the fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels crucial for regulating menstruation and fertility.

Estrogen also plays a key role in maintaining bone density by preventing bone degradation. Fluctuations in estrogen levels can lead to various physical and mental changes, potentially contributing to long-term health concerns like osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a condition marked by weakened bones and reduced density, making them more susceptible to fractures. It's important to address bone health during perimenopause to minimize the risk of conditions like osteoporosis.

Managing Perimenopause

At Forever Young, we provide comprehensive care and support to address the diverse symptoms of perimenopause and prevent any potential long-term health issues.

Our approach starts with a detailed assessment of your overall health and symptoms. Our team crafts a personalized treatment plan based on your specific condition and needs. 

The management of perimenopause involves a range of treatment options, such as lifestyle modifications, hormone therapy, and other medications. 

Lifestyle Modification

Healthy changes in your lifestyle habits can help manage perimenopausal symptoms and enhance your overall health. These include:

  • Regular exercise
  • Balanced and nutritional diet
  • Limited alcohol and caffeine intake
  • Relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy for women can help address the imbalance in your hormonal levels brought on by perimenopause. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can be an effective treatment for managing the symptoms of perimenopause. 

BHRT involves the use of hormones that closely mimic the structure of naturally produced hormones in your body. It can help restore the estrogen and progesterone levels to alleviate perimenopausal symptoms.

At Forever Young, we specialize in BHRT application. Our team provides personalized treatment plans to address your symptoms and condition. 

Non-Hormonal Medications

Non-hormonal medications can also help manage specific perimenopausal symptoms effectively. These include antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and other medications that can help with hot flashes and mood swings.

Treatment of Perimenopause in Gulfport, MS

Perimenopause comes with many physical, psychological, and long-term health changes that can affect your overall well-being. At Forever Young, we provide comprehensive medical guidance and personalized support to help you manage these changes effectively.

To schedule an appointment with our providers, reach out to us at 228-363-6623 or request a consultation online.

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