What is perimenopause and what is menopause?

What exactly is menopause, and how does it differ from perimenopause?
What symptoms can you experience, and how can you navigate menopause with minimal discomfort?

Many women believe that menopause is a lengthy process that spans several years. However, menopause is actually the point at which you have not had a menstrual period for 12 months. The term "pre-menopause," also known as perimenopause, refers to the years leading up to actual menopause.

 

What is Perimenopause, and What is Menopause?

 

The Start of Perimenopause

Perimenopause begins much earlier than most women think, typically occurring between the mid-30s and late 40s. The average age for menopause is 51, so the perimenopause period can be quite long and challenging, especially when you don't know what's happening. At 39 years old, for example, you may not immediately think of perimenopause if you start experiencing symptoms. It is the process in which women still have a normal menstrual cycle but often do not ovulate, or ovulate irregularly.

The impact of not ovulating regularly or at all is significant. During ovulation, progesterone is produced. If this doesn't happen, or happens much less frequently, an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone occurs. Estrogen levels rise, progesterone levels drop, and estrogen dominance develops. You may have already experienced this due to factors like birth control use or lifestyle.

Hormones play a vital role in women's health, and an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone can lead to significant symptoms.

 

Symptoms of Perimenopause, Menopause, and Post-Menopause

Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are a common symptom during perimenopause. They are caused by fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly estrogen, which affects the body's temperature regulation. Women experience hot flashes as sudden, intense feelings of warmth, often accompanied by facial redness and sweating. These sensations can last from a few seconds to several minutes and usually occur in the chest, neck, and face.

Hot flashes can significantly impact a woman's quality of life during perimenopause, leading to disrupted sleep, irritability, fatigue, embarrassment, and anxiety.
Fortunately, there are strategies to manage hot flashes. Wearing light, breathable clothing and avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol can help. Regular exercise and relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation can also reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes.

Weight Gain

Weight gain during perimenopause or later in menopause is a common phenomenon influenced by a combination of factors. Hormonal changes play a crucial role, particularly the decrease in estrogen on top of the decrease in progesterone. It might seem beneficial that estrogen decreases, but it's not. Even with low estrogen, you can still have estrogen dominance. Both progesterone and estrogen levels need to rise, with progesterone needing to increase more than estrogen; otherwise, low estrogen can cause many symptoms.

Low estrogen can lead to a shift in fat distribution, with more fat being stored, especially around the abdomen and waist.

Additionally, a slowing metabolism can play a role. Muscle mass decreases with age and is replaced by fat tissue, lowering basal metabolism. Furthermore, perimenopause is often accompanied by lifestyle changes, such as reduced physical activity and altered eating habits, contributing to weight gain. This is one of the reasons why weight training is so important, as it helps build muscle mass.

Stress and sleep problems, which are common during this phase, can also contribute to weight gain through hormonal disruptions and changes in eating behavior. Stress and weight loss are not a good combination for most women, though some women do lose weight under stress. Stress has a significant impact on blood sugar levels, and fluctuating blood sugar can lead to insulin resistance, which unfortunately leads to fat storage.

It's important to note that weight gain during perimenopause is not inevitable. By maintaining a healthy, low-carbohydrate diet and engaging in regular exercise, women can mitigate the impact of hormonal changes on their weight. It requires a bit more effort, but it is definitely possible.

Irregular Menstruation

Irregular menstruation is a common feature of perimenopause. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to unpredictable and variable menstrual patterns. Women may experience periods that are lighter or heavier than usual, shorter or longer in duration, and with irregular intervals. Sometimes, menstruation may stop altogether for several months before menopause is officially reached. These changes reflect the gradual decline of the egg supply in the ovaries.

Loss of Libido

Loss of libido, or decreased sexual desire, is a common issue for women during perimenopause and menopause. It is influenced by a combination of physical, hormonal, and psychological factors. Estrogen and progesterone play a role in regulating sexual function and libido. The decline in estrogen can lead to vaginal dryness and reduced blood flow to the genital areas, resulting in pain during sex and decreased sexual desire.

Psychological factors also play a role. Women may feel less attractive due to the physical changes associated with perimenopause, such as weight gain and skin changes. Mood swings, stress, and sleep problems, which are common during this time, can also contribute to decreased libido. A poor relationship and/or unsatisfying sex can also take a toll after many years and affect libido.

Vaginal Dryness

Estrogen plays an important role in maintaining the health and elasticity of vaginal tissue, as well as the production of vaginal secretions. The decline in estrogen during and after perimenopause can lead to thinner, less elastic vaginal tissue and reduced blood flow to the area, causing the vagina to feel drier and making sexual contact painful or uncomfortable.

Mood Swings, Including Sadness, Depression, Anxiety, and Panic Attacks

Mood swings are a common symptom during perimenopause and are influenced by complex hormonal and neurological changes. Estrogen and progesterone affect neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, which are responsible for mood and emotions. The decline in estrogen can disrupt serotonin balance, leading to mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and even depression.

The psychological and emotional impact of perimenopause can also contribute to mood swings. The realization of approaching a new phase in life and changes in self-image and identity can cause stress and anxiety. However, the primary cause is a disrupted hormonal balance, so don't let anyone convince you otherwise unless necessary.

Fatigue to the Point of Exhaustion

Fatigue is common during perimenopause and is caused by hormonal fluctuations. Sleep problems, such as night sweats and insomnia resulting from hormonal changes, can disrupt sleep, leaving women feeling tired during the day. Additionally, mood swings, anxiety, and stress, which are common during perimenopause, can also contribute to feelings of exhaustion. Changes in metabolism, such as a slowed calorie burn and decreased muscle mass, don't help energy levels. These physical changes can lead to weight gain and decreased energy. Hormones can also have a significant impact on the gut, one of the main causes of poor sleep.

Thinning Hair or Even Hair Loss

Hair thinning and hair loss during perimenopause are caused by hormonal changes and genetic factors. Estrogen supports hair follicles and regulates the hair cycle, so its decline can lead to changes in hair growth. During perimenopause, there may be an increased sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a byproduct of testosterone. DHT can shrink hair follicles, causing hair to thin and eventually fall out. This process is similar to male pattern baldness but often occurs in women as diffuse thinning across the entire scalp. Genetic predisposition also plays a significant role. If family members have experienced thinning hair or hair loss, it is more likely to occur during perimenopause or menopause.

Poor Sleep

Poor sleep during perimenopause is often caused by a combination of hormonal, physical, and psychological factors. The decline in estrogen and progesterone, key hormones that regulate sleep, can lead to disruptions in sleep patterns. Hot flashes and night sweats, typical symptoms of perimenopause, can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep.

Physical changes, such as muscle and joint pain, can also contribute to discomfort and sleep disturbances. Additionally, the decline in estrogen can affect mood and overall well-being, increasing stress and anxiety, which can negatively impact sleep quality.

Lack of Focus, Concentration, and Memory

Lack of focus and concentration during perimenopause is due to the decline in estrogen and progesterone, crucial hormones that regulate brain function and neurotransmitters.

Estrogen plays a role in maintaining neural connections responsible for cognitive functions. Fluctuations in estrogen levels during and after perimenopause can lead to disruptions in these connections, resulting in problems with focus, concentration, and memory.

Brain fog, also known as mental fog, is caused by disruptions in neurotransmitters that play a significant role in mood and cognitive functions. These neurotransmitters fluctuate too much.

Dizziness

The decline in estrogen and progesterone can affect the regulation of blood vessels and blood pressure, leading to dizziness. Fluctuations in blood sugar levels due to changes in eating patterns or metabolic changes can also contribute to dizziness. Additionally, typical symptoms of perimenopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats, can cause temporary blood pressure fluctuations and dizziness.

Changing Vocal Cords

Changes in vocal cords during perimenopause are primarily due to the decline in estrogen. Estrogen affects connective tissue throughout the body, including the vocal cords and mucous membranes of the throat.

During perimenopause, the decline in estrogen can lead to thinner, drier mucous membranes in the throat, causing the vocal cords to lubricate and vibrate less effectively. This can result in changes in voice quality, such as hoarseness, raspiness, or a deeper voice. Additionally, the effects of aging on connective tissue and muscles can also impact the vocal cords, leading to a general change in vocal characteristics.

Incontinence

Incontinence during perimenopause can be attributed to the hormonal and muscular changes that result from the decline in estrogen and progesterone. These hormones play a role in regulating muscle tone and supporting the pelvic floor muscles and bladder.

The decline in estrogen can weaken the pelvic floor muscles and reduce the elasticity of the tissue, leading to problems with bladder control. The closure of the bladder sphincter may become less effective, leading to unwanted urine leakage, especially during activities that increase pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, or laughing.

Changes in vaginal flora can also contribute to incontinence. Vaginal dryness, which is common during perimenopause, can lead to a loss of healthy bacteria that protect the urinary tract, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections, which can, in turn, lead to incontinence.

Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through specific exercises, known as Kegel exercises, can help manage incontinence.

Bloating and Other Digestive Issues

Hormonal fluctuations can lead to changes in digestive motility and bowel function. Some women experience constipation, while others have diarrhea.

Additionally, the stress and mood swings that often accompany perimenopause can affect digestive function. Stress can disrupt bowel function and cause symptoms such as abdominal pain and cramps.

Changes in eating habits and weight gain during perimenopause can also contribute to digestive issues. Unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, and weight gain can exacerbate symptoms such as heartburn and bloating. An extra tip: stomach acid decreases with age. Taking Betaine HCL can help solve this problem, and many issues are resolved with it.

Allergies and Intolerances

Allergies during perimenopause can have various causes, including hormonal changes, immune system fluctuations, and individual genetic predisposition. The decline in estrogen and progesterone can affect the immune system and alter the response to allergens.

The decline in estrogen can impact the immune system and the release of inflammatory substances. This can lead to increased sensitivity to allergens and the manifestation of allergic reactions.

Additionally, physiological changes in mucous membranes and tissues during perimenopause can contribute to increased reactions to allergens. Changes in vaginal flora and mucous membranes can increase sensitivity to allergic reactions in the genital area.

Individual genetic predisposition also plays a role in allergic reactions. If allergies were already present before perimenopause, the decline in estrogen can worsen existing symptoms.

Brittle Nails and Sagging, Dry Skin

Estrogen plays a role in maintaining collagen production, which affects the structure and strength of nails. With decreased estrogen levels, nails can become weaker and more prone to breaking, splitting, and peeling.

Sagging skin during perimenopause can largely be attributed to the decline in estrogen, a key hormone for maintaining the firmness and elasticity of the skin. Estrogen helps stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, proteins responsible for the structure and resilience of the skin.

As women approach menopause, estrogen levels continue to decline, leading to a decrease in the natural production of collagen and elastin. This can result in a loss of firmness and elasticity in the skin, manifesting as wrinkles, sagging, and thinning skin.

Change in Body Odor

Estrogen affects the chemical composition of sweat and can alter pH levels. With decreased estrogen levels, sweat glands may respond differently, leading to a change in sweat odor.

Additionally, hormonal fluctuations can influence sebum production, which can affect the bacterial flora on the skin. The interaction between sweat and bacteria can lead to the production of new odors.

Irregular Heartbeat

These hormonal changes can affect the electrical conduction of the heart, leading to irregular heartbeats such as palpitations or skipped beats. It may feel like the heart is temporarily beating faster or irregularly.

Breast Pain

Hormonal fluctuations, such as the decline in estrogen and progesterone, can affect breast tissue and lead to tenderness and pain.

Fibrocystic changes in the breasts, where small lumps and cysts form, are common during perimenopause and can cause pain. These changes are usually benign, but it's important to have any breast changes evaluated by a doctor.

Headaches and Migraines

Some women experience worsening or the onset of migraines during menopause, possibly due to hormonal fluctuations.
Headaches and migraines are common conditions that can negatively impact quality of life. Migraines are often accompanied by intense headaches, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and can last for hours to days. Hormonal changes, such as those during menopause, can trigger migraines in susceptible individuals.

Joint Pain

Joint pain during perimenopause can be partly due to the hormonal changes the body undergoes. The decline in estrogen and progesterone can affect the structure and function of joints.

Estrogen plays a role in maintaining bone density and promoting the production of joint fluid that acts as a lubricant. With decreased estrogen levels, joints can feel stiffer and less lubricated, leading to pain and discomfort.

Additionally, inflammatory responses and changes in the tissues around the joints can also contribute to joint pain. Factors such as aging, genetic predisposition, lifestyle, and diet can also play a role in joint problems.

Burning Tongue

The decline in estrogen and progesterone can affect the mucous membranes and blood supply to the mouth and tongue, leading to sensitivity and discomfort.

Additionally, other symptoms of perimenopause, such as dry mouth and changes in vaginal and oral flora, can affect oral health. Hormonal changes can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the mouth, contributing to irritation and pain.

If the pain persists or is severe, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

Muscle Tension

The decline in estrogen and progesterone, important hormones during perimenopause, can affect muscle tone and function throughout the body.

Estrogen plays a role in maintaining the elasticity of muscles and connective tissue. With decreased estrogen levels, muscles can become tighter and less flexible, leading to feelings of tension and discomfort.

Night Sweats

Decreasing estrogen levels can confuse the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that regulates body temperature. This can cause the body to experience "hot flashes," leading to sudden warmth and sweating, especially at night.

These hot flashes can cause night sweats, where women wake up drenched in sweat. Stress and anxiety, which often accompany perimenopause, can also contribute to the phenomenon.

To manage night sweats, women can wear cool, breathable pajamas and keep the bedroom at a comfortable temperature. Stress management techniques and avoiding caffeine and spicy foods before bed can help.

 

Navigating Menopause Without Conventional Medication

The above symptoms cannot be resolved with conventional medication. Research shows that conventional hormone medication can have 120 risks and side effects, ranging from simply not feeling well to osteoporosis, cancer, heart attacks, and high blood pressure.

The healthiest and most natural way to restore hormonal balance is by applying bio-identical progesterone cream. Bio-identical means that the cream is identical to the progesterone your body produces (unlike medication).

This cream is quickly absorbed into the body, restores the entire endocrine system (also consider hormonal imbalances in cases of adrenal exhaustion), calms the nervous system, and ensures the proper functioning of other vital hormones and organs. Progesterone is the only hormone with the property of being able to convert into other hormones.

There are two different types of creams (based entirely on Dr. Lee's formula):

Only progesterone and progesterone with a little phytoestrogen (Balance Plus cream). Which one you should use depends on your symptoms. Balance Plus is recommended if you experience:

• More than 8-10 hot flashes per day
• Night sweats
• Vaginal dryness or itching
• Loss of libido

In all other cases, it's better to start with just progesterone cream if you are still in perimenopause. If you are already in menopause, use the Balance Plus cream.
If you are truly in menopause, meaning you no longer have periods, you can also use the phyto cream preventively. It helps you age healthily.

 

Conclusion: Menopause and Perimenopause Symptoms

Always consult a doctor to rule out other causes besides hormonal imbalance.

• Eat healthily and, if possible, minimize carbohydrates. Due to all the carbohydrates we have consumed throughout our lives, insulin resistance has developed. Insulin no longer works effectively and cannot reach the cells. This leads to many symptoms, including inflammation, mood swings, and brain fog. Virtually everything mentioned above has a dietary aspect.
• Get enough sleep and reduce stress as much as possible.
• Address unresolved trauma.
• Stop people-pleasing.
• What is missing in your life? What can you add?
• Apply progesterone cream if you are in perimenopause.
• Use the Balance Plus cream when you are nearing or have completed menopause.