Pre-menopause…what happens to a woman’s body?

Millions of women are entering a phase known as perimenopause, a period that may extend for years before menstruation stops completely. During this stage, the body’s hormones, especially estrogen, begin to fluctuate up and down, which reflects varying physical and psychological changes from one woman to another.

Menstrual disorders are the most common sign of the beginning of this stage, as cycles may become irregular, the amount of bleeding may change, dates may become closer or further apart, and sometimes an entire cycle may be deleted, as a result of irregular ovulation.

But the symptoms don’t stop there. Hot flashes and night sweats are among the most prominent accompanying signs, and may directly affect sleep and energy during the day. Health studies, including the American SWAN study, indicate that between 60 and 80% of women suffer from these symptoms during the transition phase, and they often peak in the advanced stages.

Many women also suffer from sleep disorders and insomnia, which leads to constant fatigue and decreased concentration. For some women, this is accompanied by mood swings, anxiety, low mood, or what is known as “brain fog.”

Other common symptoms include vaginal dryness, increased urgency or frequency of urination, along with joint and muscle pain, headaches, or palpitations. These symptoms may be mild for some, but may become exhausting for others.

Medical authorities advise seeing a doctor in the event of heavy or abnormal bleeding, severe depression, persistent insomnia, frequent palpitations, or hot flashes that hinder daily life, not because they are necessarily dangerous, but to ensure proper evaluation and develop an appropriate support plan.