health
How do I know when I’ve hit perimenopause?
Doctors say diagnosis is usually clinical and doesn’t rely on a blood test, with symptoms often starting in the mid-40s
TL;DR
- Perimenopause often begins around age 47, characterized by changes in menstrual cycles and symptoms like hot flashes.
- Diagnosis is typically clinical, based on symptoms and age, with blood tests often being uninformative due to hormone fluctuations.
- Later perimenopause may involve less frequent periods, more intense hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and genital symptoms.
- Waning estrogen levels are the primary cause of perimenopause symptoms.
- If symptoms are concerning or atypical, consulting a specialist is advised for treatment options and to rule out other medical conditions.
- Lifestyle factors like sleep, exercise, diet, and regular medical check-ups are important during midlife.