Menopause and Perimenopause are the inevitable phases in a woman’s life. Perimenopause is the natural process of transitioning to menopause. During this phase, the ovaries decrease the production of estrogen and progesterone, leading to hormonal fluctuations in women. While both menopause and perimenopause seem similar, they have different symptoms and treatment methods. This article will guide you through the key differences in symptoms, changes, and treatments of perimenopause and menopause.
Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause
Perimenopause and Menopause are natural processes in a woman’s life, marking numerous changes in their body. These changes include hormonal fluctuations, emotional, physical, and cognitive changes. Here’s a brief information about them.
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transitioning phase to menopause, leading to many changes in the female body. This phase usually starts in the mid-40s and can last up to 4-10 years in a woman. It can also begin at a later stage of her life, depending on lifestyle, genetics, and other medical illnesses. During this phase, many changes occur in the female body, ranging from hormonal changes to irregular menstrual cycles.
What is Menopause?
Menopause is the natural process that marks the end of menstrual cycles in women. This phase usually starts around the early 50s. However, the duration varies from individual to individual based on many factors, such as genetics, lifestyle, and reproductive history. There is a permanent cessation of menstruation during this phase. This is due to a significant decrease in the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the ovaries.
Differences in Symptoms of Perimenopause and Menopause
Perimenopause is the transitioning phase to menopause, while menopause is the phase where women stop getting their periods. However, there are differences in menopause and perimenopause symptoms. Here are some common ones:
1. Menstrual Changes
- Perimenopause Symptoms: The major sign of perimenopause in a woman is a change in their menstrual cycle. Periods can become irregular, and their duration may vary in some women. These changes mark the irregularities in the flow of the menstrual cycle.
- Menopause Symptoms: A woman is considered to have officially reached menopause after going 12 consecutive months without a period. There are no longer any menstrual cycles after this point, which marks the end of fertility.
2. Hormonal Imbalances
- Perimenopause Symptoms: During this phase, the production of estrogen begins to reduce causing the fluctuations in the hormonal levels. This imbalance often causes mood swings, irritability, and increased sensitivity.
- Menopause Symptoms: During menopause, the ovaries significantly reduce the production of estrogen and progesterone marking the cessation of menstrual cycles. The low production also causes vaginal dryness, and changes in mood, including depression or anxiety.
3. Sleep Disturbances
- Perimenopause Symptoms: Perimenopause symptoms are often characterised by facing challenges falling asleep. These disruptions are caused by hormonal changes, night sweats, and hot flashes during this stage.
- Menopause Symptoms: During this phase, you may face severe sleep problems due to hormonal fluctuations. Night sweats and hot flashes may worsen the situation, leading to fatigue and irritability.
4. Weight Gain and Changes in Metabolism
- Perimenopause Symptoms: Another common perimenopause symptom is weight gain, especially around the abdominal area. You can feel the changes in your metabolism levels, making it difficult to maintain a healthy weight.
- Menopause Symptoms: Weight gain and changes in metabolism are more pronounced and rapid during menopause. Due to slower metabolism and decreased estrogen levels, weight generally accumulates around the midsection, making it difficult for women to lose weight.
Treatment for Perimenopause and Menopause
Perimenopause and menopause are two significant phases in a woman’s life. While they bring different symptoms, addressing them and seeking proper medical treatment is important. There are various treatment options to manage perimenopause and menopause effectively. Here are a few of the common ones you can consider:
1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
- Perimenopause: For many women, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be an effective treatment during perimenopause. HRT includes the use of estrogen or a mix of estrogen and progesterone to help regulate hormone levels. This treatment can alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, cognitive change, and vaginal dryness.
- Menopause: HRT is also commonly prescribed for women experiencing severe menopausal symptoms. It helps alleviate the most common symptoms of menopause such as high hormonal fluctuations, night sweats, and sleep problems. While HRT seems to be the best treatment for menopausal symptoms, it is advised to have a thorough discussion with a healthcare provider. It will help you to understand potential risks, such as increased risk of breast cancer or blood clots that it can cause.
2. Non-Hormonal Medications
- Perimenopause and Menopause: Health-conscious women who either prefer not to use hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or cannot due to health issues can consider non-hormonal medications like antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and blood pressure medications for their treatment. This can help them alleviate perimenopause and menopause symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings.
Do Not Forget!
Perimenopause and Menopause are inevitable phases of life, but they do not have to rule your life. Understanding the differences between the two stages and how to manage symptoms can help women maintain their quality of life. It is also important to have the right medical treatment and the best health insurance in India.
That’s when Niva Bupa mediclaim policy comes to your rescue. It is a comprehensive health insurance plan providing coverage for all your costs.
