Perimenopause

Perimenopause is the period in a woman's life before natural menopause, where her hormones are "in transition". It is characterized by a gradual decrease in progesterone and estrogen, but hormone fluctuations are common. This period can last from 3-10 years before menopause. Some women have many symptoms during this period, others few. Irregular menstrual cycles are the most common first sign. Other common symptoms are PMS-like symptoms (bloating, breast tenderness), hot flashes and night sweats, insomnia, vaginal dryness, and changes in the breasts. Anovulatory menstrual cycles are common, and women should watch for bleeding between periods.