Early symptoms of perimenopause: how to recognize them and what to do?
By Dr. Sebastián Sessa, specialist in obstetrics and gynecology at the Women's Unit of the Ruber International Hospital
Perimenopause is a natural stage in a woman's life that precedes menopause. Although it is often not discussed much, it is a transitional period in which hormonal changes begin to occur, which can cause various symptoms and affect quality of life.
What is perimenopause?
We speak of menopause when menstruation ceases permanently for at least a year. However, before this occurs, there is a preceding period— perimenopause —in which the body begins to experience gradual changes.
Menstruation doesn't stop overnight. During this stage, it's common to experience changes in the menstrual cycle , both in the frequency and amount of bleeding. Many women describe this phase as a time when menstruation becomes irregular or unpredictable for months.
Most common symptoms of perimenopause
In addition to menstrual changes, approximately 80% of women experience other symptoms associated with this hormonal transition. The most common are:
- Hot flushesThey usually appear in the months prior to the final cessation of menstruation and can vary in intensity and frequency.
- Sleep disturbances: difficulty falling asleep or maintaining restful sleep at night.
- Decreased libidoLoss of sexual desire is a common symptom at this stage.
- Vaginal drynessIt can also be accompanied by dryness of the skin and other mucous membranes, affecting well-being and sexual relations.
- Changes in moodMany women report feeling more down, irritable, or emotionally sensitive, which is completely normal during perimenopause.
These symptoms are part of a transitional stage, but they should not be normalized as something that has to be "endured".
The importance of consulting and verbalizing symptoms
One of the key aspects is to talk openly about these changes with healthcare professionals. Perimenopause is treatable, and the sooner you seek help, the easier it will be to improve your physical and emotional well-being.
There are different therapeutic options adapted to each woman and the intensity of the symptoms:
- Natural nutritional supplements, effective and without contraindications in many cases.
- Pharmacological treatments, indicated when the symptoms are more intense and significantly affect the quality of life.
- Psychological Support, fundamental to addressing the emotional and mood changes associated with this stage.
- Vaginal regeneration and rejuvenation treatments, especially useful in cases of vaginal dryness or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
At the Women's Unit of the Ruber International Hospital, we have a comprehensive approach, including specialized psychological support, to accompany women during this transition.
A time of change, but with solutions
Perimenopause is a time of change, but it doesn't have to be experienced with discomfort or resignation. With the right support, it's possible to navigate this period while maintaining a good quality of life and emotional well-being.
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