HEALTHPLAN MAGAZINE

Embarking on the journey through menopause can be a perplexing experience for many women, marked by physical and hormonal changes that signal the end of reproductive years. Two distinct phases within this transition—perimenopause and early menopause—often intermingle, contributing to confusion about their differences.

In this article, we unravel the intricacies of perimenopause and early menopause, shedding light on their unique characteristics, symptoms, and potential causes.

Menopause is a natural and inevitable stage in a woman's life, marking the end of her reproductive years. Typically occurring in the late 40s or early 50s, menopause is diagnosed when a woman has not experienced a menstrual period for twelve consecutive months.

During this biological transition, the ovaries gradually reduce their production of estrogen and progesterone, leading to a cessation of menstruation. Menopause brings about a range of physical and hormonal changes, including hot flashes, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and changes in bone density. While menopause signifies the end of fertility, it also marks the beginning of a new phase in a woman's life, emphasising the importance of understanding and managing the associated physical and emotional changes for overall well-being.

Usually, noticeable physical and emotional changes begin, including alterations in the menstrual cycle, diminished fertility, bone density loss, hot flashes, challenges in falling asleep, and, in certain instances, vaginal dryness. These changes often manifest several years before reaching the age of 45. This period is called ‘Perimenopause’.

Perimenopause

Perimenopause is a transitional stage in a woman's reproductive life that typically begins in her 40s, although the onset can vary. It serves as the first indicator that the reproductive stage is coming to an end and is directly tied to fluctuations in the production of estrogen, the primary female sex hormone.

The average length of perimenopause is 4 years, but this stage may last only a few months or continue for 10 years. Perimenopause ends when you've gone 12 months without having a period.

During perimenopause, hormonal fluctuations, especially a decline in estrogen production, lead to a variety of physical and emotional changes. While the duration of perimenopause can vary, lasting on average around five years, it is an essential and natural part of the aging process.

No two women will experience perimenopause in the same way, but according to The Menopause Charity, 90 percent of women will experience symptoms of some kind. Below is a list of both physical and psychological symptoms linked with perimenopause:

Physical:

• Hot flashes and night sweats, or vasomotor symptoms (VMS)
• Breast tenderness
• Worse premenstrual symptoms
• Headaches
• Tinnitus
• Muscle and joint pain
• Lower sex drive
• Fatigue
• Feeling dizzy or faint
• Irregular periods (also called perimenopause periods)
• Vaginal dryness or discomfort during sex
• Leaking pee when you cough or sneeze
• Having an urgent need to pee more frequently
• Heart palpitations
• Dry or itchy skin
• Trouble sleeping
• Short-term memory problems
• Trouble concentrating
• Hair thinning

Psychological:

• Mood swings
• Low mood - Feeling unhappy or depressed
• Reduced self-esteem
• Irritability
• Crying spells
• Anxiety
• Panic or anxiety attacks
• Feeling tense or nervous
• Memory problems
• Brain fog
• Difficulty concentrating
• Loss of interest in most things

Early menopause

Each month, the reproductive system of a woman in her fertile years readies itself for potential pregnancy. In the absence of conception, the uterine lining is shed and expelled through the vagina, resulting in menstruation. Typically commencing around the age of 12 and concluding around the age of 50 with the onset of menopause, this natural process undergoes an anomaly when ovarian function ceases prematurely, specifically before the age of 40. This condition is known as Early Ovarian Insufficiency (POI), alternatively referred to as early menopause or early ovarian failure. This condition is gaining attention for its diverse range of causes, including genetic predisposition, autoimmune disorders, and certain medical treatments like chemotherapy.

While the average age for menopause is around 50, the premature onset of this reproductive transition can have profound health implications.

Studies suggest that early menopause is linked to heightened risks of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline, amplifying the need for a nuanced approach to women's health.

Beyond the physiological aspects, the psychological impact of early menopause cannot be overlooked. Women facing premature menopause often grapple with the abrupt onset of symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings, coupled with the potential challenge of infertility. The societal narrative around menopause, largely centered on it being a natural facet of ageing, may inadvertently downplay the significance of early menopause.

It is important to consult a doctor if a woman under 40 years of age has not had a menstrual period for three or four months to determine the causes.

This article was brought to you by HealthPlan, experts in expat health insurance in Spain.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance regarding your specific health situation. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in this article. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance on the information in this article is solely at your own risk.