This period of time is called perimenopause, which is the phase leading up to your final menstrual period.
During perimenopause, ovarian function begins to wane, so estrogen levels in the body start decreasing.
We’ll explore these (and other) common signs and symptoms that women experience as menopause approaches.
Illustration by Joshua Seong. © Verywell, 2018.
Then, they will often experience skipped periods that may occur once in awhile or even for several cycles.
This is normal, and a sign that theirovariesare not releasing eggs (called ovulating) monthly anymore.
So be sure to consider pregnancy as a possibility if you miss a period.
Hot Flashes
Hot flashesare the most common symptom experienced in perimenopause and just after menopause.
Hot flashes usually go away within five years of onset.
However, a small number of people may continue to have hot flashes well after menopause.
If hot flashes affect your daily functioning and/or quality of life, speak with your healthcare provider.
Vaginal Symptoms
For some people,vaginal drynessis their first inkling that menopause is on the way.
In fact, some people do not even begin to experience this symptom until late postmenopause.
Remember, libido is an amalgam of physiological processes and psychological and emotional elements.
Finding a solution will probably involve talking to both your healthcare provider and your partner.
Experts are not entirely sure why some people experience mood changes during perimenopause and others do not.
That said, other factors are probably involved besides hormones, such as the natural process of aging.
Be reassured though that most symptoms like hot flashes and mood problems do get better.
Harvard Medical School.Perimenopause: rocky road to menopause.
American College of Obstetrcians and Gynecologists.The menopause years.
2009;15(3):105114. doi:10.1097/SPV.0b013e3181ab4804
Cleveland Clinic.Can menopause cause anxiety, depression or panic attacks?
