As women, our bodies go through various stages of hormonal changes, one of which is perimenopause. This phase is the precursor to menopause, marking a period of transition toward the end of a woman's reproductive years. But despite being a natural phase of life, perimenopause is often met with uncertainty or concern. Let’s unpack what perimenopause is, and how to navigate it like a boss.
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause literally means "around menopause." It refers to the time during which your body makes the natural transition to menopause, marking the end of the reproductive years. This phase can vary greatly among women; for some, it can last just a few months, while for others, it can stretch out over several years. Perimenopause ends when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, officially entering menopause.
Common Symptoms of Perimenopause
The symptoms of perimenopause are caused by fluctuating estrogen levels, and they can be quite varied. Common signs include:
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Irregular Periods: As ovulation becomes more unpredictable, the length of time between periods may be longer or shorter, your flow may vary, and you may even skip some periods.
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Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Many women experience sudden warmth, flushing, and sweating, often during the night.
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Mood Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels can lead to increased feelings of depression, anxiety, or irritability.
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Sleep Problems: The combination of night sweats and mood changes often leads to difficulty sleeping.
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Vaginal Dryness: Decreased estrogen levels can lead to a decrease in vaginal lubrication, which can cause discomfort during intercourse.
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Decreased Fertility: As ovulation becomes irregular, the ability to conceive naturally decreases.
When Does Perimenopause Start?
Perimenopause typically begins in a woman's 40s, but it can start as early as the mid-30s or as late as the 50s. The average duration of perimenopause is four years, but for some women, this stage may last just a few months or extend up to 10 years.
How Does Perimenopause Affect Aging?
Perimenopause can affect aging in several ways, primarily through increased risk of certain health issues due to decreased estrogen levels. These include a higher risk of osteoporosis and heart disease, changes in cholesterol levels, and changes in body fat distribution, which can all be influenced by hormonal changes during this period.
Can Bioactive Collagen Help?
One of the supportive remedies emerging in popularity for managing perimenopause symptoms is the intake of bioactive collagen. Collagen, a protein naturally produced by the body, is crucial for skin elasticity and joint health. As we age, our body’s ability to produce collagen decreases, which can lead to common aging signs such as wrinkles and joint pain.
Supplementing with bioactive collagen can offer several benefits during perimenopause:
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Skin Health: It helps improve skin elasticity and moisture, which can combat dryness and promote a more youthful appearance.
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Bone Health: Collagen supports bone health by helping to maintain the density and strength of bones, which is particularly important to counteract the increased risk of osteoporosis.
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Joint Comfort: It helps maintain joint flexibility and comfort, potentially easing the joint pain that can occur during perimenopause.
Perimenopause is a natural part of aging, and understanding what to expect can help you manage this transition more effectively. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, combined with solutions like supplementing with Bioactive Collagen, can provide support and ease the symptoms associated with this period. Remember, while each woman’s journey through perimenopause is unique, we all experience it in one form or another. If you want to share your journey, or share any tips with our Glomission community, feel free to comment below!