Is it menopause or perimenopause? Symptoms and what to do
If you still have periods, even irregular ones, you are probably in perimenopause. Menopause is confirmed after 12 months in a row without a period. The symptoms can be the same: hot flashes, poor sleep and mood changes.
Common symptoms
- Hot flashes and night sweats.
- Insomnia.
- Mood changes and brain fog.
- Vaginal dryness and lower sex drive.
When it starts
Perimenopause usually starts in your 40s, and menopause arrives on average around age 51.
What treatments exist
Changes in habits, non hormonal options and hormone therapy as patches, gels, pills or pellets. Learn about hormone pellets for women in Miami Lakes.
When to seek care right away
Get care if you have bleeding after menopause or very heavy bleeding.
When to request an evaluation
If your symptoms have lasted weeks and affect your sleep, mood, work or relationship, you do not have to wait until they get worse. At the evaluation I review your history, your medications and the lab work that applies to you, and I tell you clearly what I found and what options you have.
If you are in Miami Lakes or Hialeah
I see patients in English or Spanish in Miami Lakes, minutes from Hialeah, Hialeah Gardens and Miami Gardens. No referral needed. Learn about hormone therapy in Miami Lakes.
Sources
- National Academies: clinical utility of compounded bioidentical hormone therapy
- FDA: compounding laws and policies
- National Institute on Aging: what is menopause
- Endocrine Society: testosterone deficiency guideline
Would you like a visit in Miami Lakes?
Your safety comes first. Pellets are placed only after my evaluation and your lab work, and not everyone is a candidate. Hormone pellets prepared by compounding pharmacies do not go through the FDA review that approved medications have. Like any hormone treatment they have risks and side effects, and other options exist. Results vary from person to person.
Frequently asked questions
How long does perimenopause last?
It varies a lot and can last several years.
Does a blood test confirm menopause?
It is usually diagnosed from your age, symptoms and periods. Lab work helps in some cases.
Written by Obdelis Dominguez Romero, MSN, APRN, AGACNP-BC
Family nurse practitioner at OD Vitality, Miami Lakes. See education and license.
This article is for information only and does not replace a medical visit. In an emergency, call 911.
