Menopause usually comes gradually and starts with significant changes in a woman's menstrual cycle. When these changes are first noticed, the phase is known as "perimenopause “or menopause transition. It persists for one-year after a woman has had her last menstruation.
Perimenopause or menopause transition is a transitional phase which can have a significant impact on various aspects of a woman's well-being.
“A woman's menstrual cycle typically lasts between 28 and 35 days, however during perimenopause, hormonal changes can cause irregular periods with changes in cycle duration and flow. The first indication may be a decrease in the cycle length,” said Dr Meeta Singh, Director, Consultant, OBGYN, Menopause, Tanvir Hospital, Hyderabad.
Symptoms Of Menopause
Women's physical, emotional, mental, and social wellbeing can be significantly impacted by menopause-related hormonal changes. While some women may only have minor or no symptoms, others may have more severe symptoms that can have an impact on their daily activities and general quality of life. According to Dr Singh, some of the most common symptoms are:
- Abrupt sensation of heat on the face, neck, and chest, which are frequently accompanied by skin flushing, perspiration (sweating), palpitations, and intense physical discomfort
- Vaginal dryness leads to pain during sexual intercourse.
- Difficulty is getting quality sleep
- Changes in mood, depression, and anxiety
- Weakening of the pelvic support structures
- Loss of bone density leading to higher chances of fractures
Misconceptions About Menopause
Myths and beliefs that surround menopause can cause delay in access to proper treatment and hence these myths should be dispelled:
Myth 1
There is no chance of getting pregnant during perimenopause
Fact - It is important to understand that women can become pregnant during perimenopause and contraception is necessary if they want to prevent unintended births. During this phase, ovulation may be unpredictable due to the hormonal changes.
Myth 2
Perimenopause happens at a particular age
Fact - Not all women experience menopause at the same age. While it frequently occurs around the age 46 years in India, and 51 years in Caucasians. The onset of menopause can be affected by a few variables, including genetics, lifestyle, and general health.
Myth 3
Perimenopause signifies the end of sexual life.
Fact - Menopause might affect sexual health, but it doesn't indicate that intimacy is over. During this phase, many women experience a drop in oestrogen levels which can cause dryness and pain in the vaginal area. However, this issue can be addressed by using vaginal lubricants, moisturisers, and focused workouts to reduce symptoms and preserve sexual health.
Myth 4
Perimenopause always leads to weight gain.
Fact - Gaining weight during menopause is a major concern for women. Women face changes in hormone levels which affects the body's ability to retain fat and regulate metabolism.There is a slowing down in metabolism,and the fat accumulates in the abdominal area giving an android form. During this time of transition in life, adopting a nutritious diet, getting regular exercise, and other lifestyle changes can effectively avoid or manage weight gain.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STIs), including HIV, can still be acquired via unprotected sexualactivity, even during perimenopause and after menopause. The thinning of the vaginal lining that occurs after menopause raises the likelihood of developing lesions and tears, which in turn elevates the risk of HIV transmission during vaginal intercourse.
Also read: Menopause: 7 Ways To Manage Hot Flashes
How Women Can Manage Menopause
The most effective and easiest way to manage perimenopause and menopausal symptoms is undergoing Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT). After menopause, female hormone oestrogen starts diminishing in the body, MHT replaces the female hormones and maintains oestrogen levels. It is generally used to treat menopausal symptoms including hot flashes and vaginal discomfort, which are among the most prevalent one’s women encounter during this time.
MHT is a significant alternative for people looking for relief from both the immediate effects of menopause and the long-term health advantages of maintaining bone density and lowering the risk of fractures due to osteoporosis. It is necessary for women and their families to contact doctor in case of any severe symptoms.