The Ultimate Guide to Perimenopause: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Are you a woman in your late 30s or early 40s? Are you experiencing irregular periods, hot flashes, or mood swings? If so, you may be in perimenopause. This can be a challenging time for women, but with the right knowledge and treatment options, it doesn’t have to be. In this article, we will provide you with the ultimate guide to perimenopause, including symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Whether you’re just starting to experience symptoms or have been struggling with perimenopause for a while, this guide will help you better understand your body and provide you with the tools to feel your best during this transition.  

What is perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the stage before menopause when a woman’s body begins to transition from reproductive years to menopause. It is a time when the ovaries gradually produce less oestrogen, leading to changes in menstrual patterns and hormonal fluctuations. Perimenopause usually starts in a woman’s late 30s or early 40s but can start earlier or later for some women.  

Symptoms of perimenopause

Perimenopause can cause a range of physical and emotional symptoms that can affect a woman’s quality of life. The symptoms of perimenopause can vary from woman to woman, and some women may experience more severe symptoms than others. The most common symptoms of perimenopause include:

• Irregular, more painful periods
• Night sweats
• Poor Sleep
• Mood Swings / Irritability
• Weight Gain
• Bloating
• Worsening PMT
• Anxiety
• Low Libido
• Headaches / Migraines
• Breast Tenderness / Enlargement

Perimenopause is caused by changes in hormonal levels in a woman’s body. Specifically, perimenopause occurs when there is a lack of progesterone and sometimes testosterone, leading to changes in menstrual patterns and hormonal fluctuations. The following factors can also contribute to perimenopause:

• Genetics: A woman’s genetics can play a role in the timing and severity of perimenopause.
• Smoking: Smoking can lead to an earlier onset of perimenopause.
• Cancer treatments: Chemotherapy or radiation can cause ovarian damage, leading to early perimenopause.
• Surgery: Surgical removal of the ovaries or uterus can lead to early menopause.

 

Treatment options for perimenopause

There are several treatment options available for women experiencing perimenopause symptoms. The best treatment option for each woman depends on her individual symptoms and medical history. It’s important to consult with medical professionals, such as the expert team here at BioID Health, to determine the best perimenopause treatment for your individual needs. Some of the most common treatment options for perimenopause include Lifestyle changes: Simple lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep, can help alleviate perimenopause symptoms. Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy involves taking hormones, such as oestrogen or progesterone, to replace the hormones that the body is no longer producing. Hormone therapy can help alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy: Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) involves using hormones that are chemically identical to the hormones naturally produced by the body. BHRT is customised to meet the individual needs of each woman and is proven to have fewer side effects than traditional hormone therapy. Non-hormonal therapies: Non-hormonal therapies, such as antidepressants, can help alleviate mood swings and other emotional symptoms associated with perimenopause. Alternative therapies: Therapies such as acupuncture or herbal supplements may also help to alleviate perimenopause symptoms.  

Why choose BioID Health for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy?

At BioID Health, we understand that perimenopause can be a challenging time for women. That’s why we offer doctor-led, personalised treatment plans to help alleviate perimenopause symptoms. Our team of experienced doctors and healthcare professionals will work with you to develop a customised treatment plan tailored to your individual needs. Our treatments are based on the latest scientific research and are designed to provide the safest and most effective results. We specialise in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, which involves using hormones that are identical in structure to the hormones naturally produced by the body. This approach allows for a more personalised and precise treatment plan, with fewer side effects than traditional hormone therapy. We take a comprehensive approach to your health, looking at all aspects of your well-being to provide a holistic treatment plan. We also offer ongoing monitoring and support to ensure that your treatment is working effectively and to adjust your plan as needed. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards feeling your best during this transition. You can give us a call on 0330 460 9999 or send a message using our online contact form for a swift response.