What is premenopause …?

 Menopause refers to the end of your menstrual cycle. Once you’ve gone 12 months without a period, you’ve reached menopause.

The average woman goes through menopause at 51 years old. The time period before menopause is called perimenopause.

Perimenopause symptoms occur for 4 years, on average. However, perimenopause can last anywhere from a few months to 10 years. During this time, the hormones estrogen and progesterone are in flux. Your levels will fluctuate from month to month. 

These shifts can be erratic, affecting ovulation and the rest of your cycle. You may notice anything from irregular or missed periods to different bleeding patterns.

Other symptoms of perimenopause include:

• hot flashes
• night sweats
• sleep troubles
• memory issues
• difficulty urinating
• vaginal dryness
• changes in sexual desire or satisfaction

What you can do

Consider keeping a journal to track your periods. Include information such as: 

• when they start
• how long they last
• how heavy they are
• whether you have any in-between spotting

You can also log this information in an app, like Eve.

Worried about leaks and stains? Consider wearing panty liners. Disposable panty liners are available at most drugstores. They come in a variety of lengths and materials. 

You can even buy reusable liners that are made of fabric and can be washed over and over again

As you may know, taking ibuprofen (Advil, Midol, Motrin) during your period can help with menstrual cramps. 

If you take it when you’re bleeding heavily, it may also reduce your flow. Try taking 200 milligrams (mg) every 4 to 6 hours during the day.

If cramps and pain continue, talk to your healthcare provider about hormonal approaches to treatment. Some women have a medical or family history that discourages the use of hormones in the perimenopausal period

If you’re concerned about your menstrual flow, you may want to schedule an appointment to see your doctor.

The variation in color is usually due to the amount of time it takes for the blood and tissue to cycle out of the body, but it can sometimes be a sign of another underlying condition. 

If there’s a foul odor to the vaginal discharge, it may be a sign of infection. See your healthcare provider.

If you’re worried about short, unpredictable cycles, consider leakage protection such as liners, pads, or period underwear like Thinx.

Pass on tampons and menstrual cups unless you have a menstrual flow. Insertion can be difficult or uncomfortable without this lubrication. You’re also more likely to forget to change your tampon or cup, increasing your risk for complications.