Did you know perimenopause, the transition period leading up to menopause can bring about changes in menstrual patterns? If you are in your 30s or 40s, you are all set to enter your perimenopausal stage. Hence, it becomes important to be aware of these changes to take care of your health during this transitional period. We spoke to our expert Dr Anusha Rao P, Consultant Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, who listed changes that you should notice during perimenopause.
According to the Journal of Mid-Life Health, the time leading up to, during, and following menopause is referred to as the perimenopausal period. Menopausal symptoms typically persist until the postmenopausal phase, where they diminish in response. The consequences of hormonal changes on numerous organ systems, most notably the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems, which impact their quality of life, are the acute symptoms of menopause.
Changes In Periods During Perimenopause
During perimenopause, which is the transition phase leading up to menopause, women may experience various changes in their menstrual cycles. Dr Rao said that these charges can vary greatly from person to person but commonly include:
Changes In Irregularity and Frequency Of Periods
“Perimenopause often brings irregular menstrual cycles, with variations in the length of your cycle, the flow of blood, and the duration of your period. You may experience shorter or longer cycles, or even skip periods altogether”, said Dr Rao.
Also, the frequency of your periods may change, with shorter or longer intervals between each period.
According to HHS Public Access, this irregularity develops into lengthier amenorrheic episodes; if these episodes last for sixty days or more, the patient has entered the late menopausal transition, which is characterised by more pronounced hormone swings and longer amenorrhoea.
Changes in Flow
Your menstrual flow may become lighter or heavier than usual. Some women may notice increased clotting during their periods, while others may experience lighter bleeding.
Also Read: Bone Health During Perimenopause: 6 Health Tips Every Woman Should Follow
Menstrual Symptoms
Symptoms associated with your period, such as cramping, bloating, breast tenderness, and mood swings, may intensify or diminish during perimenopause. There can be a wide range of severity and duration of these symptoms.
Duration of Menstruation
The duration of your periods may change, with periods lasting for fewer or more days than before. Some women may experience shorter periods, while others may have longer periods.
Perimenopausal Symptoms
Alongside changes in your menstrual cycle, you may experience other perimenopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness, and mood changes.
According to the Journal of Women's Health, in addition to the menopausal transition, perimenopausal women experience poorer sleep more frequently as they age. During the transition, women experience an abrupt increase in the prevalence of depressive mood and heightened anxiety as they approach the final phases of the menopausal transition and have lengthier bouts of amenorrhoea.
Also Read: Mental Health Matters: Experts Explain Impact Of Menopause On Mental Health
Ovulation Changes
Ovulation may become irregular during perimenopause, leading to changes in your fertility. It's still possible to get pregnant during perimenopause, although the chances decrease as you approach menopause, said Dr Rao.
Hormonal Fluctuations
Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly oestrogen and progesterone, can contribute to the changes in your menstrual cycle during perimenopause. These hormonal shifts can impact various aspects of your reproductive health and overall well-being.
Bottomline
Dr Rao concluded, “Overall, the menstrual changes during perimenopause are a normal part of the transition to menopause, but it's essential for women to stay in touch with their healthcare providers to manage any symptoms or concerns effectively.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you face any health issues to get the necessary treatment.]