As GP’s, we frequently speak with women who are navigating the challenging yet inevitable life stage of menopause. Whether you’re nearing the end of your reproductive years or experiencing the early stages of perimenopause, understanding what’s happening to your body can help you better manage your symptoms and feel more in control. In this article, I will explain the difference between perimenopause and menopause, outline common symptoms, and offer advice on when to seek medical help.

What is Menopause?

The term “menopause” refers to the time in a woman’s life when she has gone a full 12 months without a period. This marks the end of her reproductive years. In Australia, the average age of menopause is 51 years, though it can occur anywhere between 45 and 55 years. Some women may experience menopause earlier or later than this range, and the timing can vary significantly from person to person.

Menopause itself is not an illness, but rather a natural biological process that occurs when the ovaries stop producing eggs and the body’s levels of estrogen and progesterone decline. This results in the cessation of menstruation and often brings a range of physical and emotional changes. The symptoms associated with menopause can vary greatly, and while some women may barely notice a shift, others may experience more intense effects.

What is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional period that leads up to menopause. This phase can begin several years before menopause, often starting in a woman’s 40s, but it can also start in the late 30s or even earlier. During perimenopause, the body’s hormone levels fluctuate and begin to decline, which causes many of the common symptoms associated with menopause. For some women, this phase may last anywhere from a few months to several years.

Because perimenopause is a transition period, symptoms can be erratic. You might experience some changes in your menstrual cycle, such as heavier or lighter periods, or more frequent or less frequent periods. Symptoms are typically most noticeable during the first few years of perimenopause, and may gradually become more intense as you approach menopause.

Common Symptoms of Perimenopause and Menopause

Everyone experiences perimenopause and menopause differently. While some women sail through this phase with minimal disruption to their lives, others may find the symptoms more challenging to manage. Common symptoms include:

• Hot Flushes and Night Sweats: These sudden feelings of warmth, often accompanied by sweating, are one of the most widely known symptoms of menopause. They can occur at any time of day but are particularly common at night, disrupting sleep.
• Mood Changes: Many women experience mood swings, irritability, or even bouts of anxiety and depression. These emotional shifts are primarily due to fluctuating hormone levels but can also be impacted by sleep disturbances and other physical symptoms.
• Forgetfulness: Often referred to as “brain fog,” some women report difficulties with concentration, memory, or thinking clearly. This can be frustrating but is typically temporary and linked to hormonal changes.
• Headaches: Hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause can trigger new or more frequent headaches or migraines.
• Sore Breasts: Hormonal changes can lead to tender or swollen breasts, which can make everyday activities uncomfortable.
• Aches and Pains: Joint and muscle pain can increase during perimenopause, with some women experiencing stiffness, particularly in the mornings.
• Dry Vagina: As estrogen levels decrease, vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex are common. This can lead to an increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and vaginal infections as well.
• Reduced Sex Drive: A decrease in estrogen can lead to reduced libido, which can affect relationships and intimacy.
• Itchy Skin: Decreased estrogen can also cause your skin to become drier and more prone to itching or irritation.
• Weight Gain: Metabolism tends to slow down as women approach menopause, which can contribute to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.

When to Seek Help

Perimenopause and menopause are natural parts of a woman’s life, but the symptoms can sometimes be overwhelming. If you’re finding that the symptoms of perimenopause or menopause are impacting your quality of life, it’s important to speak with your doctor. Here are a few reasons why you might consider making an appointment:

• Worried about your periods: If you notice significant changes in your menstrual cycle, such as very irregular periods, excessively heavy bleeding, or periods that last longer than usual, it’s a good idea to discuss these changes with your doctor to rule out other potential causes.
• Symptoms are affecting your daily activities: If symptoms like hot flushes, mood changes, or sleep disturbances are preventing you from doing things you usually enjoy or need to do, your doctor can help you explore treatment options.
• Impact on sleep, eating, or well-being: If you’re struggling with insomnia, changes in appetite, or mood fluctuations that affect your eating, sleeping, and overall enjoyment of life, it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional who can offer solutions or treatments to alleviate these symptoms.

Treatment Options

While menopause and perimenopause are natural processes, there are several ways to manage symptoms. Depending on the severity of your symptoms and your individual health needs, treatment options may include:

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): This is the most common treatment for severe menopause symptoms, as it helps replace the estrogen your body no longer produces. HRT can relieve symptoms like hot flushes, vaginal dryness, and mood swings, but it’s not suitable for everyone. A thorough discussion with your doctor can help determine if HRT is right for you.
• Lifestyle Changes: Diet and exercise play a key role in managing symptoms. Regular physical activity can help with weight management, reduce aches and pains, and improve mood. A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can also support overall well-being during this time.
• Non-Hormonal Treatments: For women who cannot or prefer not to take HRT, there are alternative options, including antidepressants, blood pressure medications, or other therapies to alleviate hot flushes, mood changes, and other symptoms.

In Summary

Menopause and perimenopause mark a significant life transition, and while the symptoms can be challenging, there are numerous options to help you feel better. If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor. You don’t have to go through it alone, and together, we can find the right approach to help you navigate this stage of life with confidence and ease.

The medical team at YFD are very experienced in treating peri-menopausal and menopausal symptoms. To have a consultation with one of our doctors to discuss your symptoms please book a long ‘menopause’  appointment so we can give you the time you deserve.

Resources

https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/menopause

https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/resources/perimenopause-and-menopause-symptom-checklist