Perimenopause is the mark of the onset of menopause, where one may still menstruate, but with longer time interval between menstrual cycles. At this stage, you will begin to notice mild symptoms that intensify as you move toward menopause. While most women consider this phase detrimental to their health, menopause is actually a transition into a new phase of renewal and growth.

Menopausal usually begin a year after your last period has ended or immediately when your ovaries have been removed. Early menopause is when the woman reaches menopause before the age of 40 - your menstrual cycle becomes less frequent, and the bleeding filters down to brown spotting with the symptoms of maneopause e.g. hot flushes and night sweats. Fortunately, menopausal symptoms can be managed effectively.

WHAT MAY TREATMENT INVOLVE?

During your consultation with Dr Hartell, she will assess your needs and the priorities for treatment. There are various lifestyle changes and techniques that can make menopause more comfortable, but medication can also help relieve symptoms. Treatments include certain medications to counteract symptoms such as vaginal dryness, hair thinning and insomnia.

For more severe cases, Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT), may be considered to support the body. Since a lack of hormones brings about the symptoms, the deficiency may be replaced with medication to lessen the symptoms, making menopause more manageable. Menopause hormone therapy may also be used in women who have had their ovaries removed and in women who still have their ovaries.