Navigating perimenopause and menopause can be overwhelming, from the myriad of symptoms to the array of treatment options and lifestyle changes to consider. To help demystify this transitional time, OB-GYN and menopause expert Jessica Shepherd, in conversation with SHE Media’s Chief Content Officer Cristina Velocci, breaks down what happens during the transition to menopause in our first ‘In Flow With’ conversation. They cover the latest research, science, and best practices to combat menopausal symptoms. You can watch their full conversation on LinkedIn or read the edited transcript here.
So, what exactly is perimenopause and how does it differ from menopause?
According to Dr. Shepherd, perimenopause refers to the period before reaching menopause, meaning it surrounds and precedes the onset of menopause. Menopause, on the other hand, is technically just one day when a person no longer has enough estrogen to release an egg and become pregnant. The perimenopausal phase, which typically starts in a woman’s 40s, can last for seven to 10 years and is characterized by a rollercoaster decline in hormones, resulting in irregular bleeding and changes in menstrual cycles. Once a person has gone 12 consecutive months without any bleeding or spotting, they have officially entered menopause.
What age does perimenopause start, how long does it last, and when does it typically end?
The average age for menopause in the United States is 52, although it can occur earlier or later for some individuals. Premature menopause, defined as the absence of menstruation before the age of 40, can be caused by a variety of factors, including family history, cancer treatment, and autoimmune diseases. The duration and end of perimenopause vary from person to person, making it difficult to predict when an individual will start experiencing it.
In addition to discussing the causes of premature menopause, Dr. Shepherd emphasizes the importance of open communication within families to understand their history and potential risk factors. By discussing menopause experiences with relatives, individuals can gain insight into what to expect as they approach this stage of life.
Is there any way to predict when perimenopause or menopause might start?
While there is no definitive way to predict the onset of perimenopause or menopause, family history can provide valuable insight. As for signs of perimenopause, it’s not limited to skipped periods; individuals may experience a variety of symptoms. Understanding the complexity of these symptoms is essential for effective management and support during this transition.
