Defining Premenopause, Perimenopause, and Menopause

"Menopause, premenopause, and perimenopause refer to specific stages in a person's fertility cycle during and at the end of their child-bearing years.

There are a wide range of fluctuations in hormones from adolescence, at the beginning of the menstrual cycle (monthly period), to the fertility peak in the mid-20s and then toward menopause. Perimenopause usually occurs in your 40s and menopause at an average age of 51, but the actual timeframe can vary from person to person.

Early Menopause

Some people experience menopause earlier than in their 40s, perhaps even before their 30s. The age you were when your periods started has no effect on when the perimenopausal phase starts

Menopause

Menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, but for some people, menopause can happen as early as the 30s or 40s. For others, menopause may not occur until they reach age 60.

Under normal circumstances, you do not suddenly experience menopause. Instead, it occurs gradually and involves different phases.

Perimenopause

Perimenopause usually occurs during the 40s. The most significant sign that someone is in the perimenopausal phase of the reproductive cycle is that they have visible symptoms.

These symptoms occur due to the decrease in estrogen and other sex hormones. Some healthcare providers may refer to this phase as "menopause transition."

Premenopause

This phase does not involve any of the classic signs or symptoms of menopause (such as night sweats, insomnia, or missed periods). A person experiencing premenopause has periods that may or may not be regular, and they are still considered fertile in the reproductive phase of life.

What Is Amenorrhea?

Amenorrhea simply means the absence of monthly periods. There are several reasons that amenorrhea may occur when it is not linked with menopause or perimenopause."

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✨Takeaway: Menopause, premenopause, and perimenopause are three stages in a person's fertility cycle. Early menopause is possible and may occur even before the person reaches their 30s. Amenorrhea is the absence of monthly periods, which may occur for various reasons.

✨Reflection: How has the onset of menopause/premenopause/perimenopause affected your overall health and well-being?

#Women #Menopause #Premenopause #Perimenopause #FertilityCycle

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