Perimenopause
Find out more about the perimenopause, its symptoms and treatment
What is the perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the phase when a woman’s body begins to experience fluctuations in the key hormones; oestrogen and progesterone. It typically starts after the age of 45 but in some cases, it is noted to start earlier.
What are the symptoms?
During the perimenopause, a woman’s hormone levels begin to fluctuate and vary from day to day, which often gives rise to a range of symptoms which vary from individual to individual. The most reported ones include irregular periods, hot flushes/night sweats, poor sleep, mood changes, worsening pre-menstrual syndrome, loss of libido, fatigue and weight re-distribution. The perimenopause is likely to be very different to someone else you know who is going through it. It may be more severe or very mild. Not all women will require treatment at this stage.
The perimenopause can usually be diagnosed from the clinical history alone or in some cases, with the help of a blood test for a hormone profile. But these tests may sometimes be confusing because the hormone levels may sometimes appear normal in the perimenopause.
What are the risks?
Women are at an increased risk for osteoporosis, heart disease, and other health conditions, especially anxiety and depression because of the declining ovarian function. Managing these risks involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet.
How can it be treated?
Treatment for the perimenopause depends on the severity of symptoms. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the most effective treatment. Other options include lifestyle changes, such as exercise, healthier eating, and stress reduction, as well as alternative therapies like acupuncture, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and non-hormonal products available over the counter.
Book your appointment
Book your appointment with our specialist team
Dr Neale Watson
Consultant Gynaecologist
Dr Mike Savvas
Consultant Gynaecologist
Dr Marilena Nicou
GP Menopause specialist
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the perimenopause?
This term refers to the years before the onset of the menopause, when the ovaries are functioning less well, and women may experience typical menopause-type symptoms. Sometimes periods can be irregular at this time, but in some cases, the cycle is still regular.
How do I know if I am in the perimenopause?
The diagnosis is usually based on the clinical history including symptoms. Blood tests are not always reliable in establishing this diagnosis because they can often be normal. However, blood tests may be useful to exclude other causes of these symptoms, including an underactive thyroid or anaemia.
What to Expect From Your Visit
The first visit will entail a comprehensive consultation, examination and hormone profile testing if required. Our highly qualified menopause specialists will guide you through the process of choosing the safest and most effective treatment to manage your symptoms.
A prescription will usually be issued, at the first visit if appropriate and a follow-up is arranged after 2-3 months to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and make changes as required. Our clinic allows for remote consultation for those who cannot make an in-person follow-up. This may be via a video or telephone call.
Additional services such as pelvic ultrasound scan, coil fittings, smear tests and bone density scan (DEXA) may also be performed as appropriate. We can also arrange for you to have a mammogram if you need one.