Peri-Menopause Symptoms.
Being that I am 40, I could very well be in the phase of Peri-Menopause. Peri-Menopause is also known as PreMenopause.
While you are not medically in a state of menopause until one year after your very last period, many women, such as myself, begin with symptoms several years before. In doing research, some women in their early thirties start feeling some of these PreMenopause symptoms.
I think I started a few of these symptoms in the last year - especially the night sweats. While I usually just get them right before my period, they are something I never had to deal with before this last year.
While there are many symptoms that will vary from woman to woman, this is a list of the most common symptoms of Peri-Menopause:
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Hot flashes
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Night Sweats
- Irregular periods
- Mood changes, especially irritability
- Dry skin
- Thinning Hair or Hair Loss
- Difficulty Sleeping (falling or staying asleep)
- Loss of interest in sex
How we deal with the symptoms can make all the difference. Whether it is a simple change like my suggestion of wicking pajamas or herbal supplements or medical therapies, it is an issue we will all deal at some point or another.
The best advice I have (that I need to take myself) is that if you are bothered by any of the symptoms of peri-menopause, it is time to bring it up at your yearly doctors appointment.
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POSTED IN: 30's Plus, 40's Plus, 50 Plus, Aging for Women, Health, Menopause
7 opinions for Peri-Menopause Symptoms.
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Cheryl
May 2, 2008 at 10:33 pm
I believe I’m entering into perimenopause. I’m 35 and my cycle has changed dramatically. I’m practicing tantra yoga which is a help with the mood swings, helps me sleep and reduces night sweats.
My hormones are off balance during my cycles, and they never have been. Yoga and a vegetarian diet are helping. I notice a big difference when I eat home made food versus organic ‘healthy’ pre-packaged foods…I feel much better with the home-made food.
I see perimenopause as a way of taking care of my body and health as I age and I believe if I continue in the future what I’m practicing now, menopause will be manageable.
I never really thought of myself as getting older. 35 is young to me. 60 is young to me! When the stray wiry gray hair pops up, I think…I’m closer to 40 than I ever have been….I’m learning to go with the flow and see life as an adventure and change with the cycles of life.
Teri
May 4, 2008 at 10:35 am
Cheryl - You have a great attitude and some great tips and tricks. I wish I has the outlook you did. Hopefully in time, I will.
Deborah
Jun 13, 2008 at 2:07 am
It is worth going to see a good naturopathic Doctor too and find out what herbs may be helpful. Many women have dramatically reduced the irksome symptoms of peri-menopause with a good regimen of herbs and supplements. There has been a study recently that found taking 40 grams of crushed flaxseed per day can cut hot flashes in women.
Miz Liz
Jun 14, 2008 at 7:19 am
It’s very likely that you may be having some premenopausal stuff going on. I’ve written about how to go about trying some natural therapies, finding a practitioner, and some of the pros and cons of the natural route.It is important to speak to a practitioner who is open to intergrative medicine I think - I know that for me, having a gyno who believes in many of the things I’m trying -herbs, etc - has meant the world!
Holly
Aug 25, 2008 at 10:15 am
I am experiencing very sore and swollen breasts during perimenopause. any suggestions? I take flax, evening primrose, vit E and B6. cut out caffeine.
Teri
Aug 25, 2008 at 10:29 am
Hi Holly - I would definitely check with your doctor about this. Sorry I could not be of help.
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