What is Perimenopause
People normally think that menopause is the time when a woman's periods begin to decrease and her production of reproductive hormones slow. However the truth is menopause means the time from the last period counting forward twelve months.
Perimenopause is the occurrence when it takes 2 to 6 years for the body to stop producing as much estrogen and other reproductive hormones. It is normally during this time that women experience the classic menopause symptoms. It is important to know how to care for yourself during this time and be aware of the signs of perimenopause in order to be prepared for this change.
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Classic Symptoms of Perimenopause |
Symptoms of Perimenopause
The process may takes several years without having a surgery or other medical procedure that instigates it as a woman goes through the change of life naturally. Some women may notice their periods begin to be unpredictable and several months may pass without having one and only to suddenly show up out of nowhere. Others may experience more than one period in a month and the flow can become heavier. It isn't uncommon if weight gain happen during perimenopause as the body tries to adjust to the hormone level changes. Some women will have perimenopause weight loss and go to the other end of the spectrum.
diagnose of perimenopause
The early stages of any medical change may be difficult to self diagnose. Your missed period can be simply the result of a lot of stress but not perimenopause. You will need to take some perimenopause tests to know for sure. You can find an at home one to take on your own or ask your doctor to administer the test for you. It's important to know that even if you test at home, your doctor might want to give you more sensitive tests in the office to determine an accurate diagnosis and rule out other possibilities.
Perimenopause Treatments
Normally the type of perimenopause treatments you receive will be a combination of what is appropriate for your symptoms and your personal choices. There are many women who have gone through this change with relatively few symptoms and little difficulty. Other women may have extreme symptoms and need help making the transition. You can choose to decide to treat your symptoms naturally with a progesterone cream or one of the other natural methods or take HRT.
Perimenopause can be a freeing experience if you have a good symptom care and the right frame of mind. There are lots of excellent natural treatment options which will help with difficult symptoms all the way through your menopause hot flashes.