Health Tip

Perimenopause is referred to as the final cessation of your menstrual cycle and the time in which you will start to see and feel the signs and symptoms of menopause—including weight gain, hot flashes, and mood swings. Perimenopause differs for every woman, but on average it takes about a year to complete (unless you have a full hysterectomy), between the ages of 45 to 55, after which time you are post-menopausal.

Here are ten common signs and symptoms that you are perimenopausal…

1. Missed Periods

Your “time of the month” is typically regular, but when your period doesn’t show up on time, or gets shorter and lighter, or you start to clot heavily, it may signal menopause approaching. Remember, being in full menopause occurs a full 12-month period without menstruation.

2. Hot Flashes

Just about any woman approaching menopause knows a hot flash when she feels one. That sudden overwhelming blast of heat that extends from your forehead to your toes and leaves you soaking with sweat occurs due to hormones mixing up your body’s temperature regulation (the hypothalamus).

3. Weight Gain

Weight gain can be a very frustrating attribute of menopause, especially since the added weight tends to accumulate in the midsection, which can leave you at risk of heart disease. Try to combat weight gain by consuming a healthy diet and enjoying some regular exercise.

4. Sleep Deprivation

Insomnia is typical to women in perimenopause as estrogen levels deplete and the brain excretes fight-or-flight response chemicals that keep you on high alert through the night. Many women find that regular exercise accompanied by melatonin supplements help them get their blissful sleep back.

Source: Catherine Roberts, activebeat.com

Courtesy: Health Prior 21