Perimenopause

What is Perimenopause

Perimenopause means “around menopause” and refers to the time during which your body makes the natural transition to menopause, marking the end of the reproductive years. Perimenopause includes the menopause (not menopausal) transition and the first year of menopause.1

When does it occur?

Perimenopause begins for most women in their early 40s.  However, perimenopause can begin earlier than 40.

What is the average length of time that perimenopause lasts?

The average length of perimenopause is about four years, but others may be in this phase longer. If you have not had a period for more than 12 months, you are no longer in perimenopause. 2

How do I prepare for perimenopause?

Being prepared for perimenopause starts with knowing what to expect. Every month, your hormones have cycled in a symphony of communication between your hypothalamus, anterior pituitary gland, and ovaries. During perimenopause, hormone levels fluctuate. As estrogen decreases, you are likely to experience menopause symptoms


What does perimenopause mean for women with fibroids?

Perimenopause is a transitional phase leading up to menopause, during which hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, can fluctuate significantly. These hormonal shifts can have unique effects on women with fibroids, including:

  • Fibroid Growth: Fluctuating and sometimes elevated estrogen levels during perimenopause can stimulate fibroid growth. This may lead to heavier menstrual bleeding, increased pelvic pain, or more frequent urination.
  • Worsening Symptoms: Some women may notice their fibroid-related symptoms become more pronounced during perimenopause due to these hormonal surges.
  • Unpredictable Cycles: Irregular periods during perimenopause can make fibroid symptoms like heavy bleeding harder to manage.

For women with fibroids, it’s essential to track symptoms and discuss treatment options with a healthcare provider. Managing fibroids during perimenopause may include non-surgical options, like hormonal treatments or lifestyle changes, to reduce symptoms.

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What are the symptoms of perimenopause?

Skipped/irregular periods

Hot flashes

Mood disturbance

Heavy periods

Decreased fertility

Night sweats

Sleep disturbance

Urinary frequency

Vaginal issues

Sexual function changes

Bone density loss

Cholesterol level changes 1

References

1 Perimenopause, Mayo Clinic

2 Perimenopause, Cleveland Clinic

3 Uterine Fibroids After Menopause, Cleveland Clinic

4 Fibroids, Harvard Health

 

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