For generations, women have treated menopause like another phase of life to quietly power through. But that’s changing. Now, conversations about perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause are popping up everywhere — from group chats to doctor’s offices.Women are speaking up and taking charge of their experience, pushing for more support and better care in their health journey.
Perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause are natural stages in a woman’s life that bring about changes due to hormonal shifts, but they differ in timing, symptoms and management.
Perimenopause
Perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause, starting in a woman’s 40s, but sometimes occurring as early as the mid- 30s. It can last anywhere from a few years to a decade. During this time, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and the body begins to adjust.
One of the first signs of perimenopause is an irregular menstrual cycle in which periods may become heavier, lighter, longer or shorter. Symptoms during perimenopause may include:
- Irregular periods
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Fatigue
- Joint or muscle pain
- Mood swings and irritability
- Sleep disturbances
- Decreased libido
- Vaginal dryness
- Weight gain
- Hair loss
- Itchy skin
Menopause
Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years, defined as 12 consecutive months without a period. The ovaries cease estrogen production entirely, which can lead to more intense symptoms than those experienced during perimenopause.
Common symptoms of menopause include:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Urinary incontinence
- Sleep problems
- Mood changes
- Hair loss
- Itchy skin
Postmenopause
Postmenopause is the absence of a menstrual cycle for 12 months and lasts for the rest of a woman’s life. Symptoms of postmenopause are similar to those of perimenopause and menopause; however, symptoms may be less intense. Postmenopausal women have a much higher risk for osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease due to the decline of estrogen, a hormone essential to maintaining strong bones and protecting against heart attack, heart disease and stroke.
Managing Symptoms
During all of these phases, various treatments can alleviate symptoms.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) involves taking estrogen (and sometimes progesterone) to balance hormonal changes. This can significantly reduce hot flashes, vaginal dryness and mood swings — but it is not suitable for all women.
Non-hormonal medications like certain antidepressants can help with hot flashes. Lifestyle changes — such as eating a balanced diet, staying active and managing stress — may alleviate some symptoms naturally.
Menopause can be an unfamiliar and sometimes difficult chapter in a woman’s life. At UnityPoint Health – Meriter, we offer a variety of providers who believe in compassionate, evidence-based care. Whether it’s discussing perimenopause, symptoms you’re experiencing or navigating post-menopause, our team is here to help you feel your best at every stage.
You deserve to thrive — not just survive — through menopause.