Perimenopause and menopause

Overview

Menopause is 12 months without a period.

Lower estrogen also affects bones and heart, so health habits matter.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Hot flashes or irregular periods
• Hot flashes or night sweats

Less common

• Night sweats
• Vaginal dryness
• Mood changes
• Trouble sleeping

Look up a symptom: Can't stand the heat, or sweating a lot · Hot flashes or night sweats · Irregular periods · Low mood · Low sex drive · Trouble sleeping · Vaginal dryness

When to get medical care

Causes

Natural aging of the ovaries.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Smoking (earlier menopause)

Possible complications

• Osteoporosis

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on age and symptoms.

Questions you may be asked

• Period changes

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Blood tests: Sometimes.

Treatment

Ease symptoms.

Self-care

• Dress in layers
• Keep the bedroom cool
• Limit alcohol and spicy food
• Use vaginal moisturizer

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To stay healthy:

• Weight-bearing exercise
• Calcium and vitamin D

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a gynecologist (OB-GYN).

Living with it

• Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
• Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
• Stay active in ways that feel good to you.
• Get enough sleep and manage stress.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Symptoms often fade over a few years.

Myths and facts

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• Is hormone therapy right for me?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Perimenopause and menopause