“Why didn’t you come to see us earlier?” my doctor queried when I revealed that my periods had been showing up every couple of weeks for the last six months.
“Well… I thought it was just a part of aging,” I replied.
“You’re only 43,” she pointed out. “You’re not in menopause.”
True, I’m not in menopause, but everything indicates I might be experiencing something else: perimenopause.
This is that delightful phase when your body starts to play tricks on you with irregular periods, breast tenderness, and mood swings that are all over the map. According to the Mayo Clinic, perimenopause is the transitional period before menopause, characterized by fluctuating estrogen levels. During this time, your menstrual cycle may become erratic, offering a sneak peek into the menopause symptoms we’ve heard about since we were teens, often highlighted by relatives who seemed to be perpetually fanning themselves, no matter the season.
Although menopause typically occurs in your 50s, the Cleveland Clinic notes that perimenopause can commence 8 to 10 years earlier—defined as a full year without a menstrual cycle. Most people begin experiencing perimenopause in their 40s, but some may notice changes as early as their 30s. On average, this transition lasts about four years, so hold on tight, friends. We’re in for several years of hot flashes, breast discomfort, and baffling moments of tearfulness over a commercial for car insurance.
Isn’t having a uterus a joy? Perimenopause is a natural part of life, marked by a decrease in estrogen production and irregular egg release. Essentially, it’s when your menstrual cycle starts to pack its bags. While you may be less likely to conceive, your periods may still persist, with a variety of strange symptoms arising from hormonal fluctuations.
Signs You Might Be in Perimenopause
Here are some signs that you might be in the throes of perimenopause. Given the chaos that comes along with it, we should at least have a fun name for this phase—how about the Peri-Meny Club or Team Why Is It So Hot In Here? Here are a few signs that you might be part of this club:
- You wake up drenched as if you just ran a marathon—even with the fan blasting.
Forget the memes about thermostat disputes. You find yourself sweating through your shirt while your partner is bundled up in a sweater. You start the night feeling cool, only to wake up at 2 a.m. in a sweaty mess. - Your period has taken a wild turn.
It might be longer or shorter, heavier or lighter. You might experience streaks of brown followed by sudden heavy flows. It’s a complete mystery! - You feel like you need a desert-sized supply of lube down there.
Let’s just say, things can get a bit dry. - Your emotions are on a rollercoaster.
One moment, you’re in a cleaning frenzy, and the next, you’re sobbing on the couch with a pint of ice cream. Some mornings, I growl at my family, only to feel bubbly by the evening. - Your breasts feel like they’ve been through a mammogram non-stop.
And your nipples? They feel like they’re under constant attack. - You find yourself laughing… and then suddenly needing to pee.
This has been a recurring theme since having kids, so who really knows? - You’re wide awake at 2 a.m., 3 a.m., and then 4:30 a.m.
It’s no wonder you wake up some mornings feeling irritable.
Though perimenopause can be frustrating and perplexing, these symptoms are usually not a cause for serious concern. If you have any worries, consult your doctor to exclude more serious issues, such as depression, anxiety, fibroids, or thyroid conditions. Just because it’s a natural process doesn’t mean you have to endure perimenopause in silence. One of my favorite self-care methods is a good venting session with my best friend. So feel free to express your frustrations. Other helpful remedies include hormone therapy, antidepressants, calcium supplements, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle with exercise and proper nutrition.
If you’re noticing some (or all) of these symptoms, you may indeed be ready to join the Peri-Meny Club. But remember, this doesn’t mean we’re old!
For more insights, check out this blog post on home insemination or learn more about artificial insemination kits as they offer helpful information on related topics. You can also explore CCRM IVF’s blog for excellent resources on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
Perimenopause is a transitional phase characterized by fluctuating hormone levels leading to various symptoms such as irregular periods, mood swings, and physical discomfort. It typically begins in your 40s and can last several years. Recognizing the signs can help you navigate this challenging period, and seeking support and information can aid in managing symptoms effectively.