Has your monthly cycle started throwing you curveballs? Perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause, often brings changes that leave women with more questions than answers.
At Florida Woman Care of Jacksonville, our team of skilled OBGYNs can help you proactively address the challenges of perimenopause. We offer a complete range of gynecological services, including expert guidance and support to manage this chapter of life.
Curious how perimenopause affects your period? Read more to explore common changes and learn what you can expect as your hormones shift.
During perimenopause, your body begins to slow its production of key reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone. This natural process typically starts in your mid-40s but can begin earlier or later.
The hormonal fluctuations of perimenopause have a direct impact on your menstrual cycle. Let’s take a look at four ways your period may change:
Changing levels of estrogen and progesterone in your body can make your cycle unpredictable. Your period may show up early one month and be late the next. You might even find yourself skipping periods altogether.
The duration of your periods can change. You may notice that your period seems shorter or longer than typical, or it may fluctuate monthly.
You may find that your cycles get noticeably heavier or lighter during perimenopause. In the earlier stages, when estrogen levels decline, the uterine lining thins, and periods often get lighter and shorter.
On the other hand, excess estrogen can cause the uterine lining to build up, resulting in heavier bleeding during your cycle. Your period is considered heavy if:
Heavy periods aren’t just an inconvenience; they can lead to chronic fatigue and anemia without proper treatment.
Spotting (or light bleeding) between your periods is common during this transitional phase. Hormonal fluctuations can cause occasional spotting outside of your regular menstrual cycle.
While some minor spotting is typical, heavy or frequent bleeding could indicate a different underlying issue or a more significant hormonal imbalance. Talk to our team if you’re concerned about abnormal bleeding.
Women who experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) may notice that symptoms like irritability, anxiety, and mood swings intensify with the onset of perimenopause. Physical symptoms, such as menstrual cramps, breast tenderness, and headaches, may worsen as well.
Perimenopause can also cause mood changes similar to PMS, known as perimenopausal mood instability, but its symptoms aren’t limited to the days leading up to your period. Between 20-40% of women struggle with depression during this time.
Perimenopause can change your period, and that’s normal. However, some situations warrant a discussion with our team.
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re dealing with heavy bleeding, periods that last longer than seven days, severe pain, or if you’re worried about pregnancy. Dr. McDyer and Dr. Suhrer may recommend hormone replacement therapy or other treatments to help manage uncomfortable symptoms.
Navigating the hormonal changes of perimenopause can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Call Florida Woman Care of Jacksonville today or schedule an appointment online to discuss your concerns and explore your options.
