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What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the stage of a woman’s reproductive life that begins 8 to
10 years before menopause, when the ovaries gradually begin to produce less
estrogen. Perimenopause lasts up until menopause, the point when the ovaries
stop releasing eggs. In the last one to two years of perimenopause, the decrease
in estrogen accelerates. At this stage, many women experience menopausal
symptoms.
What is menopause?
Menopause is period of time when a woman stops having her monthly period and
experiences symptoms related to the lack of estrogen production. By definition,
a woman is in menopause after her periods have stopped for one year. It is a
normal part of aging and marks the end of a woman's reproductive years.
Menopause typically occurs in a woman's late 40s to early 50s. However, women
who have their ovaries surgically removed undergo "sudden" menopause.
The drop in estrogen levels during perimenopause and menopause triggers
physical as well as emotional changes -- such as depression or anxiety and
changes in memory. Like any other point in a woman’s life, there is a
relationship between hormone levels and physical and emotional symptoms. Some
physical changes include irregular or skipped periods, heavier or lighter
periods, and hot flashes.
Coping with the symptoms of menopause
There are many other ways you can ease menopause symptoms and maintain your health. In general, these tips include ways to cope with mood swings, fears,
and depression:
- Find a self-calming skill to practice such as yoga, meditation,
or slow, deep breathing.
- Avoid tranquilizers.
- Engage in a creative outlet or hobby that fosters a sense of
achievement.
- Stay connected with your family and community; nurture your
friendships.
- Seek emotional support from friends, family members, or a
professional counselor when needed.
- Take steps to stay cool during hot flashes, such as wearing
loose clothing.
- Keep your bedroom cool to prevent night sweats and disturbed
sleep.
- Take medicines, vitamins, and minerals as prescribed by your
doctor.
- Eat healthfully and exercise regularly.
What are my options for treating depression during this phase of my life?
- Your doctor will try to exclude any medical causes for your
depression, such as thyroid problems.
- Depression during perimenopause and menopause is treated in much
the same way as depression that strikes at any other time; however, there is a
growing body of evidence to suggest that estrogen replacement can provide
relief of minor physical and emotional symptoms, as well as prevent
osteoporosis. However, there may be a slight increase in breast cancer
and blood clots. However,
hormone replacement therapy alone is not effective in treating more severe
depression. Antidepressant drug therapy and/or psychotherapy may be necessary.
If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, be sure to talk to your
doctor about finding a treatment that will work for you.
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