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How to find out whether you are in perimenopause or menopause

You don't know what's going on. We'll give you a step-by-step guide to getting your perimenopause or menopause under control.


Feeling confused and unsure about what's happening to your body? Perimenopause and menopause can be confusing and overwhelming, but we're here to help you take control. Follow our step-by-step guide to find out if you're in perimenopause or menopause:

  1. Monitor your menstrual cycles: As you approach menopause, your menstrual cycles may become irregular. By tracking your cycles, you can recognize patterns and changes that may indicate perimenopause or menopause.
  2. Pay attention to the symptoms: Both perimenopause and menopause can cause a variety of symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings and vaginal dryness. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be a sign that you are in perimenopause or menopause. You can find detailed information on this under "Check your symptoms".
  3. Talk to your healthcare provider: Your healthcare provider can help you determine whether you are in perimenopause or menopause based on your symptoms and menstrual cycles. She can also perform a physical examination and order blood tests to check your hormone levels.
  4. Check your FSH and oestrogen levels: FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and oestrogen are two hormones that play an important role in the menstrual cycle. As you approach the menopause, your FSH levels usually increase and your oestrogen levels decrease. Your healthcare provider may order blood tests to check your FSH and estrogen levels to determine if you are in perimenopause or menopause.
  5. Consider a bone density test: As you approach menopause, your body's oestrogen production decreases, which can lead to a loss of bone density. A bone density test can help determine if you have osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become weak and brittle.
  6. Consider alternative treatment options: Depending on your symptoms and overall health, your healthcare provider may recommend alternative treatment options such as hormone replacement therapy or non-hormonal therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, your healthcare professional may also recommend medication such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication to treat mood swings and other symptoms.
  7. Change your lifestyle: A healthy diet, regular exercise and stress management can help to reduce the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can also improve your overall health during this time. We also offer an exchange between women in perimenopause and menopause in our Facebook group as well as in Meno-Cafes.
  8. Be patient: Determining whether you are in perimenopause or menopause can take some time, and it may take a few months or even a few years for all symptoms to appear. It's important to be patient and work closely with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment for you.

Don't let perimenopause or menopause take over your life. By following this step-by-step guide, you can take control and understand what is happening to your body. Remember that every woman's experience is different. That's why it's important that you work closely with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment for you. Go into this new chapter of your life with confidence, knowing that you have the tools you need to manage and understand your perimenopause or menopause.

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