What does perimenopause mean?

Perimenopause refers to a special period from the beginning of irregular menstruation to the complete cessation of menstruation within one year. It includes the menopausal transition period and early menopause, and marks the gradual decline of women's ovarian function and the end of their reproductive ability.

Perimenopause usually begins when women are around 45 years old and lasts until 12 months after menopause. During this period, women's menstruation will gradually become irregular, and they may experience prolonged menstrual cycles, reduced menstrual flow, or sudden menopause. At the same time, due to changes in estrogen and progesterone levels in the body, women may also experience a series of physical and psychological symptoms, such as hot flashes, sweating, mood swings, insomnia, anxiety, depression, etc.

In addition to the above symptoms, perimenopausal women may also face other health problems, such as osteoporosis, increased risk of cardiovascular disease, etc. This is because the reduction of estrogen can affect bone health and the function of the cardiovascular system.

In order to smoothly pass through the perimenopause period, women can adopt appropriate strategies, such as improving their diet structure, eating more foods rich in calcium and vitamin D to prevent osteoporosis; participating in physical exercise appropriately to enhance physical fitness; providing more psychological care and maintaining a positive and optimistic attitude; if necessary, they can also receive drug treatment under the guidance of a doctor.

Perimenopause is an important stage in women's lives, which requires adequate attention and care from women and their families. Through proper diet, exercise and psychological adjustment, women can smoothly go through this special period and enjoy a healthy and happy life.