When Estrogen Takes a Dive: The universal negative consequences of dropping estrogen levels
Did you know that dropping estrogen levels are now linked to perimenopausal depression?
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Perimenopause and Menopause
Embrace the transformative power of menopause as a life stage. Gain practical insights and strategies for how to navigate menopause with Fempower Health’s resources. Explore hormonal shifts, symptom management, and self-care practices.
What is Perimenopause vs. Menopause?
PHASE 1
Very Early
Perimenopause
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2-5 years in duration
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Regular periods
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Less progesterone
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More estrogen
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Risk of heavier periods, increased period pain, migraines, sleep disturbances
PHASE 2
Early Menopause
Transition
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Onset of irregular periods with variation of 7 or more days
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Low progesterone which can lead to mood changes, migraines, sleep issues, breast pain
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High, fluctuating estrogen but it drops even lower, causing worse night sweats and hot flashes
PHASE 3
Late Menopause
Transition
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First cycle that lasts more than 60 days
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Breast pain eases
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Hot flashes and night sweats may intensify
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May have 1-2 heavy periods
PHASE 4
Late
Perimenopause
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12 months from the final period
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Fewer migraines
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Mood symptoms may stabilize
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Sleep may stabilize
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Hot flashes may continue
Perimenopause, meaning “around” menopause, is when your female body naturally transitions into the life stage of menopause — the end of your reproductive years. Typically during your mid-40s, you’ll notice perimenopause symptoms. You might begin to experience irregular periods, weight changes, decreased libido, or vaginal dryness. Some women notice these changes earlier in their mid-30s, while others don’t enter perimenopause until later in their 50s. Not all women have the same severity of perimenopause and menopause symptoms.
Menopause begins one year after your last period
NOTE: Does not apply for early menopause or medical/surgically induced menopause
Additionally, individual symptoms vary as do the severity of those symptoms.
Source: Dr. Lara Briden’s Hormone Repair Manual
“With menopause, there’s this cultural norm that women just suffer; women are automatically difficult. No. Women don’t have to suffer through menopause.”
- Dr. Maria Uloko
Expert Interviews
Unlocking the Menopause Journey: Expert Advice & Empowerment.
Join us on the Fempower Health Podcast as we dive deep into perimenopause and menopause, discussing symptoms, hormone therapy, self-care tips, and more. Discover actionable insights to navigate this transformative phase. Tune in now for empowering conversations and embrace your menopause journey with confidence.
The Perimenopause and Menopause Bookshop
Fempower Health's Community-Backed Book Recommendations: Empowering Reads for Perimenopause & Menopause. Learn your menopause hormones , try different lifestyle management options, and navigate the changes with confidence. Explore now!
Resources
Blog
Perimenopause and menopause are an inevitable phase of life for over 50% of the population (all women). Learn about the perimenopause stages, hormone levels during perimenopause, and common symptoms you may experience during this time. To get quick explanations on what to expect and how to manage menopausal topics, check out the Fempower Health blog.
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