Menopause and Perimenopause

Menopause

Menopause is the time in a woman’s life when the ovarian production of estrogens, progesterone, and testosterone declines. The average age of menopause onset is 51, plus or minus several years. Medically it is defined as the time in which a woman ceases to menstruate for a period of 12 months. While this properly describes the event, the process can begin up to 10 years earlier (called perimenopause).

Long before a woman’s periods have stopped, she has already noticed a change. Her periods become shorter in duration and she notices a loss of energy, a decrease in strength, and a loss of libido. Her mood is altered and she may be more agitated, depressed, apathetic and forgetful. These are all symptoms of menopause, the loss of estrogens, progesterone and testosterone.

Perimenopause

Perimenopause is the period of time before, and for a year after, the final menstrual period during which ovarian hormonal patterns change. The average age at which irregular cycles develop is approximately age 47 but in many cases can start as early as 35 years old. Like menopause, this is a normal part of a woman’s life cycle. Women can experience many of the same signs of menopause and can also find relief with bioidentical hormone therapy.

Can I get pregnant during Perimenopause?

The answer is yes. As long as you're menstruating, you're ovulating. This means that pregnancy is possible during perimenopause. In fact, pregnancy is possible until menopause occurs which happens only when you haven't had a period for twelve consecutive months. Ask Dr. Sims about your options and how you can increase your chances of pregnancy during perimenopause.

Treating Menopause and Perimenopause Symptoms

There is no way to stop menopause, it’s a natural cycle of life. Every woman will go through menopause at some point in her life. However, the difference is how you treat it. Hormone replacement therapy will help you overcome the symptoms and effects that occur with this stage of life.

Menopause symptoms that you may experience can include you being itchy, sweaty, constantly tired, feeling bloated, forgetful, feeling "dry" and in a bad mood.

Please contact Dr. Sims at (918) 481-2992 or through our convenient online form for information on menopause and perimenopause and what your options are.