Perimenopause refers to a transitional period before a woman's menstrual cycle stops altogether. Perimenopause also refers to the fluctuation of changes in the menstrual cycle, along with several emotional and physical symptoms that could last up to 10 years before the last cycle.

Facts

Most women in general go through perimenopause between the ages of 45 to 55; however, some women start perimenopause as early as their 30's.

Menstrual Irregularity

During perimenopause, a woman's menstrual cycle or period flow and length can become irregular because of the fluctuation of hormones and changing levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body.

Night Sweats

During perimenopause, some women experience night sweats, which are hot flashes that occur at night while sleeping, often followed by a chill. Heavy perspiration is one of the symptoms of night sweats.

Hot Flash

Hot flashes are a condition resulting in a red, flushed face and neck, an increased pulse rate, perspiration and a rapid heartbeat. Hot flashes are one of the most common perimenopause-related symptoms.

Insomnia

Sleeping difficulty, called insomnia, typically occurs during perimenopause and can involve waking up too early in the morning, difficulty falling asleep and waking up often at night.

Treatment

To ease perimenopause symptoms, some women can take oral contraceptives like birth control pills along with hormone treatments combined with estrogen.

Source:

Healthline.com: Perimenopause Symptoms

Nlm.nih.gov: Change of Life

Womenshealth.gov: Perimenopause and Treatment

More Information:

Menopause.org: Perimenopause and Menopause Glossary