Perimenopause: The Transition Stage to Menopause

It is the transition phase between the fertile stage and menopause, during which menstruation becomes intermittent or begins to be absent . During this period, the typical symptoms of menopause become more noticeable and bothersome, leading to both physical and emotional changes.

When does perimenopause occur?

In Spain, the age of perimenopause varies. It usually begins between 45 and 55 years of age , although the age of onset can vary considerably between women. Some experience symptoms even before 45, while others do not notice them until after 50. The duration of this stage is variable, but usually ranges between 4 and 8 years .

What hormonal changes occur during perimenopause?

There is a sudden reduction in hormone production by the ovaries, which causes physical and emotional symptoms. The main cause of the characteristic symptoms of menopause is the loss of estrogen , because most organs and tissues in the body are receptors of this hormone, so their correct functioning depends on its presence in the body.

What are the most common symptoms of perimenopause?

• Menstrual changes: Irregular cycles, lighter or heavier bleeding, longer or shorter periods.
• Hot flashes and sweating: These are caused by hyperactivity of the thermoregulatory center in the hypothalamus, which becomes more sensitive to temperature variations. (79% of women)
• Insomnia: May be related to hormonal changes and hot flashes, as well as stress and anxiety associated with perimenopause.
• Brain fog, lack of concentration: This is thought to be related to hormonal changes and fluctuations in estrogen levels that affect cognitive function.
• Dryness of the mucous membranes (vaginal, eyes, mouth...): The decrease in estrogen levels can cause a decrease in the production of lubrication in these areas of the body.
• Hair loss and brittle nails: Decreased estrogen levels can affect the health of hair and nails.
• Mood swings and irritability: These are a result of hormonal changes and can be exacerbated by stress and lack of sleep.
• Weight gain and bloating: These can be caused by hormonal changes, slowing metabolism, and changes in body fat distribution.
• Low sexual libido: Decreased estrogen levels can affect sexual desire.
• Headaches: These may be related to hormonal changes, stress, and lack of sleep during perimenopause.
• Anxiety: This can be caused by hormonal changes, stress associated with perimenopausal symptoms, and concerns about aging and bodily changes.
• Fatigue: May be a result of hormonal changes, insomnia, and stress associated with perimenopause .

Are there other less common symptoms of perimenopause?

• Body itching: This can occur during perimenopause due to changes in hormone levels that can affect the skin and its sensations of irritation.
• Tingling in hands and feet: Tingling in hands and feet may be experienced during perimenopause due to changes in blood circulation and nerve function, which can be influenced by hormonal fluctuations.
• Increased body odor: During perimenopause, changes in the activity of sweat and oil glands may occur due to hormonal fluctuations, which can result in increased body odor.

But you are not alone!

3.8 million women in Spain and 1.31 billion women in the world are going through the same thing as you. It is important to remember that every woman is different and that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to perimenopause. If you are experiencing symptoms that bother you, it is best to consult with your doctor so that he or she can advise you and recommend the most appropriate treatment for your case.

Perimenopause is a natural stage in a woman's life, but it doesn't have to be a negative experience. With a little information and self-care, you can navigate this stage with confidence and enjoy a full, healthy life.

Women, let's join forces:

At Madequa we have realized 2 very important things:

• There is a LOT of misinformation about this VERY long stage in a woman's life.
• There is a lot of negativity, shame and taboo surrounding this natural cycle our body goes through.

But we have come to change things, our mission is:

• Provide scientific information so that you can enjoy a well-managed menopause.
• Empowering women to get rid of social complexes and live this process naturally, with culture, strength and freedom.

If you don't identify with these data, you may be in one of the other two stages of menopause (perimenopause or postmenopause) → read the following blog and find out or take our test to better understand which stage you are in.

References:

Nanette Santoro, MD - Perimenopause: From research to practice. (2016). National Library Of Medicine, PMCID: PMC4834516PMID: 26653408. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4834516/

Perimenopause - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic. (2023, May 25). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/perimenopause/symptoms-causes/syc-20354666#:~:text=Perimenopause%20means%20%22around%20menopause%22%20and,end%20of%20the%20reproductive %20years.

Ruiz, A. (2020b, September 28). Difference between premenopause, perimenopause, menopause and climacteric. Menopause Institute. https://www.institutodelamenopausia.com/divulgacion/sintomas/diferencia-entre-premenopausia-perimenopausia-menopausia- and-climacteric

Nanette Santoro, MD - Perimenopause: From research to practice. (2016). National Library Of Medicine, PMCID: PMC4834516PMID: 26653408. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4834516/

Larrea, DEP (2018, May 9). Difference between premenopause and perimenopause. Assisted Reproduction ORG. https://www.reproduccionasistida.org/que-es-la-perimenopausia/perimenopausia/

Gynecologist Elena Marín | Premenopause What is it and what are its symptoms? (sf). https://ginecologacordoba.com/premenopausia-que-es-y-cuales-son-sus-sintomas/

García, I. (2021, December 13). Premenopause and a lot of sleep. Menopause Institute. https://www.institutodelamenopausia.com/divulgacion/sintomas/premenopausia-y-mucho-sueno

Ruiz, A. (2020, September 28). Difference between premenopause, perimenopause, menopause and climacteric. Menopause Institute. https://www.institutodelamenopausia.com/divulgacion/sintomas/diferencia-entre-premenopausia-perimenopausia-menopausia-y-climaterio

Md, T., & Md, T. (2022, March 15). 34 Major Symptoms of Menopause | OB-GYN Specialists of South Miami. OB-GYN Specialists of South Miami |. https://www.toplinemd.com/obgyn-specialists-of-south-miami/34-major-symptoms-of-menopause/