Is it Perimenopause? or something else?
Although perimenopause can begin in our 30s, its important to tune into the changes occurring and understanding that hormones may or may not be the only culprit.
Here are the list of the more common symptoms:
MENSTRUAL CHANGES:
Changes in your periods is the most common symptom of perimenopause. Having periods that are lighter or heavier, or occur more frequently or less frequently than usual.
What else could this be? Irregular bleeding can be a sign of an illness, infection, endometrial polyps, uterine fibroids, pregnancy complication, cervical cancer, or uterine cancer.
HOT FLASHES OR HAIR LOSS
As we produce less estrogen in the ovaries, it can cause hot flashes, night sweats, hair loss, or thinning hair.
What else could this be? Hot flashes and hair loss can be caused by an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
WEIGHT GAIN / GENERAL TIREDNESS & FATIGUE
Declining estrogen levels can contribute to weight gain, including increased belly fat, and overall feeling fatigue and tired.
What else could this be? These same symptoms can also be caused by an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).
BODY ACHES , FROZEN SHOULDER AND JOINT PAIN
So many women in perimenopause suffer from widespread body aches, muscle aches, and pain in the joints and waking up stiff.
What else could this be? It is important to rule out other causes like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and depression.
MOOD SWINGS
Fluctuating hormone levels during perimenopause contribute to anxiety, irritability, and feelings of depression.
What else could this be? Anxiety and depression may be unrelated to perimenopause. It is important to check with a psychologist or speak with your family doctor for mental health.
INSOMNIA
Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep is common when you are experiencing hormonal changes and is a common perimenopause symptom.
What else could this be? If you are struggling with sleep for more than a two weeks, you should be evaluated for sleep disorders (like sleep apnea) there are clinics around Calgary dedicated to sleep.
VAGINAL CHANGES OR SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION
As estrogen levels decline, the vaginal tissue becomes thinner. They may tear, causing pain during intercourse. Many women in perimenopause also experience a decrease in libido as well.
What else could this be? Sexual dysfunction can be caused by many different factors, both physical and mental/emotional. Speak with Julie, our sex therapist to discuss vaginal changes
www.maudmedical.com MAUD is here to help you through your perimenopause and menopause journey
