by Megan E. Huibregtse, PhD
We are currently conducting a study on how responses to stress and trauma change across perimenopause (see CHAPTERS Study), and we’ve gotten a few questions more than once. With the help of one of our study co-investigators, E. Britton Chahine, MD, a gynecologist and an Associate Professor of Gynecology and Obstetrics at Emory University, we have some answers for these frequently asked questions.
What is the difference between perimenopause and menopause?
Menopause is defined as the absence of a menstrual cycle (or any vaginal bleeding) for one year (12 months) after that final period. Perimenopause is the transitional period from when you start to experience changes in your menstrual cycle pattern and sometimes other menopause-related symptoms until you reach menopause. These changes are due to the ovaries producing less estrogen and progesterone as the number of eggs declines.
What are the physical symptoms of perimenopause?
Physical symptoms of perimenopause can include hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness, increased urination, fatigue, weight changes, and joint pain. Some people will experience little to no symptoms, while for others, these symptoms can be very severe and bothersome.
What are some of the mental health symptoms of perimenopause?
Mental health symptoms of perimenopause can include brain fog, forgetfulness, mood swings, and feeling down, depressed, hopeless, or anxious. These feelings could be related to changes in hormone levels, sleep disturbances, or both. This period of life is often full of life stressors, and you may be feeling especially anxious or depressed. The important thing is to remember that you are not alone—these feelings happen to everyone, to varying degrees—and that medical professionals can help.
If you need help or are ever thinking about harming yourself or others, please call the Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL) at 1-800-715-4255. GCAL is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year to help you or someone you care about in a crisis. You can also go to the Grady Memorial Hospital Emergency Department (located at 80 Jesse Hill Jr. Drive SE, Atlanta, GA 30303; open 24/7) or ask for a walk-in consultation at the Grady Behavioral Health Outpatient Center (located at 10 Park Place NE, Atlanta, GA 30303; open Monday–Friday, 8AM to 2PM).
What are the stages of menopause and how long does it usually take to go through each stage?
Everyone’s experience of perimenopause is a little different. For some people it can just last a year or two, while for others it may last many years. Postmenopause starts one year after the final menstrual period and lasts for the rest of that individual’s life.
What should women do if they are experiencing severe symptoms due to perimenopause?
Menopause-related symptoms are common, and many people find them to be bothersome. Lifestyle changes, medications, stress management, and taking care of your mental health can help with severe symptoms. In general, many individuals are eligible for hormone therapy, which can help manage symptoms. Please seek care from medical and mental health professionals.
Where can I find more information about perimenopause?
The Menopause Society has lots of free, online patient resources, including articles, information sheets, and a glossary of terms. There is also a search tool on the website that can help you find a medical provider who is trained to help people during perimenopause. Medical and mental health professionals can help you with bothersome symptoms or if you have specific questions related to your health.
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