Perimenopause refers to the transitional phase leading up to menopause, during which levels of oestrogen and progesterone begin to fluctuate. This hormonal shift signals a gradual decline in ovarian activity and a reduction in fertility. Perimenopause typically begins in the late thirties to early forties, although the timing can vary depending on individual genetic factors.
Menopause marks the end of ovulation and menstruation and signifies the natural conclusion of a woman’s reproductive years. It is usually confirmed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period and commonly occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age being around 51. In approximately 1% of women, menopause occurs before the age of 40- a condition referred to as premature menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency. This transition represents a key life stage with both physiological and emotional significance.
Experiencing Menopause: Symptoms and EffectsThe reduction in hormone levels during menopause leads to a variety of symptoms that can profoundly affect our daily lives. These symptoms may begin months or even years before menstruation ends and typically persist for about four years after the last period. They include (in image).
Post-Menopausal Health ConcernsBesides the symptoms that hit us right away, there's a bigger picture to consider. With dropping oestrogen levels, we're at a higher risk for some pretty serious health issues, like osteoporosis, heart disease, and even a greater chance of dementia. To tackle these risks, we need to think about changes in what we eat and how we live. This isn't just about making menopause easier in the short term; it's about making choices that will keep us healthy and strong for years to come.
When we talk about managing menopause, it's really important to understand there are two main strategies we need to think about. On one hand, we're looking at ways to ease those day-to-day symptoms that can be really bothersome. On the other, we're focusing on how to lower our chances of running into bigger health problems down the road. By tackling menopause from both angles, we're not just making our daily lives more comfortable; we're also taking proactive steps to protect our health in the future.What we can achieve working together:
Navigating perimenopause and menopause is a personal journey, and I'm here to tailor our consultations to your needs. Here's a glimpse into some of the common themes we often explore:
