Perimenopause is the transition from the fertile years of your 20s and 30s, when the ovaries produce high levels of the female hormones (Estrogen and Progesterone) during each cycle, to menopause, when ovulation and periods stop permanently.
Perimenopause lasts on average around five years, but this can greatly vary from woman to woman. The average age of the final period is between the age of 45 to 55 years old and symptoms of perimenopause can start in your late 30s to early 40s. The changing hormone levels can cause a variety of symptoms including hot flushes, night sweats, mood symptoms such as rage and anxiety, insomnia, weight gain, joint pains and heavy periods.
Menopause, sometimes referred to as post-menopause, is the life phase that begins 12 months after the final period. Often symptoms improve once you have progressed to menopause with its stable hormone levels.
The menopausal transition is a natural process just like puberty or the post-partum period is, but just like these other life phases it can be challenging to navigate as it is a phase of great change and necessary adaptation.
You can book a consultation at one of our menopause clinics, led by British Menopause Society accredited specialists, available at various locations throughout the borough.
There are a number of dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes and certain nutrients which can ease the transition and improve symptoms.
Find out more information on what you can do to support yourself through this life phase.
In the near future, we will be offering monthly interactive online meetings covering various topics related to peri/menopause. These sessions will provide an opportunity to learn, ask questions, and discuss any concerns you may have.
Take a look at the other services we offer at our Women’s and Girls’ Health Hub.
If you would like to book into any of the other services that we offer there will be an option to add more appointments once you have made your booking.