This article explains these different terms and the symptoms most often associated with the stage.
For others, menopause may not occur until they reach age 60.
In the United States, the average age is 51.
Verywell / Emily Roberts
Under normal circumstances, you do not suddenly experience menopause.
Instead, it occurs gradually and involves different phases.
Perimenopause
Perimenopause usually occurs during the 40s.
These symptoms occur due to the decrease in estrogen and other sex hormones.
Some healthcare providers may refer to this phase as “menopause transition.”
Perimenopausal symptoms can continue through menopause, but they may begin to worsen as you get closer to menopause.
Perimenopause usually occurs over an eight to 10-year time span, with estrogen gradually decreasing over time.
A person who is premenopausal is considered fertile and in the reproductive phase of life.
During premenopause, there are no noticeable changes in the body, but hormonal changes may start to occur.
Early Menopause
Some people experience menopause earlier than in their 40s, perhaps even before their 30s.
However, perimenopause and menopause can be influenced by several factors, including:
What Is Amenorrhea?
Amenorrheasimply means the absence of monthly periods.
There are several reasons that amenorrhea may occur when it is not linked with menopause or perimenopause.
Summary
Terms that describe menopause fall on a continuum across the reproductive years.
Premenopause describes the time frame between menarche and menopause.
Perimenopause specifically describes the stage that occurs before menopause.
Perimenopause often involves the same bang out of symptoms seen with menopause.
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