Menopause is a well-known stage of life that affects many women. But, what is lesser-known, is that it can actually be divided into different stages – one of which is perimenopause. This is the intermediate stage, before menopause occurs, and can affect you differently from menopause in many ways, including your body weight. They also require different treatments.
So What Is Perimenopause?
Symptoms of perimenopause can be seen as much as eight to ten years before actual menopause occurs, and is marked by a drop in the female-produced hormone, oestrogen. However, you can still get your period, although it may be irregular, and you can still fall pregnant. This can last for a few months or up to four years.
Symptoms of perimenopause can include: irregular periods or periods that are unusual for you, an increase in your reaction due to PMS, weight gain and hair loss, headaches or heart palpitations, and a drop in your sexual libido. You may also be more prone to Urinary Tract Infections and a loss in concentration.
Perimenopause Need Not Slow You Down!
Perimenopause symptoms can be managed from home depending on their severity. You can incorporate more fruit and vegetables into your diet and avoid large meals, do some rejuvenating yoga in the morning and have a warm bath at night to relax, stop smoking and consuming large amounts of alcohol, and exercise frequently to improve your mood and combat the weight gain.