Are you starting to experience hot flashes, trouble sleeping, and mood changes? Some women may fear that they will live with these symptoms for years as they approach menopause. However, according to a study, perimenopause can be managed.

Every woman experiences the period of menopause differently. Well, perimenopause is the stage that occurs when your estrogen and progesterone levels begin to fluctuate. Women may start perimenopause in their mid-30s and late 50s. If you smoke, are overweight, or have a family history of early menopause, you are more likely to experience perimenopause first. The timing of this transition can be several months or several years.

Causes and Symptoms of Perimenopause:

Perimenopause is a natural process when your ovaries will stop working. Your menstrual cycle will be irregular and will come to an end. It gradually happens as we age. Along with the periods coming to an end, there will be ongoing symptoms due to changes in the hormone in your body.

Some common symptoms are as follows;

• Irregular periods 
• Hot flashes
• Mood swings
• Weight gain
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Vaginal dryness and infections
• Urinary incontinence and urinary tract infections
• High cholesterol levels
• Sex drive is low
• Loss of bone mass

Tips to handle Perimenopause

• Eat a healthy diet: Choose a high-fiber and low-fat heart-healthy diet. Fruits, vegetables, chicken, and fish are all good choices. Avoid red meat and deep-fried foods.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking fluids throughout the day reduces the risk of urinary tract infections and improves your overall health. Choose water-free or caffeine-free and non-carbonated drinks to quench your thirst.
• Get Regular Exercise: Build at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise into your schedule each week. Include weight-bearing exercises or strength training to maintain bone mass and reduce your risk of osteoporosis.
• Prepare for Hot Flashes: Dress in layers, and if you think the hot flash is coming, you can remove the sweater or jacket. Keep the rooms in cool temperatures and carry a small battery-powered fan while you are away from home. Avoid foods that cause hot flashes, such as alcohol, caffeine, and spicy dishes.
• Stop Smoking: Smoking can worsen your perimenopause symptoms. It can significantly increase your risk for many types of cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
• Track your menstrual cycle: Record when your period starts and ends and how much you bleed or mark each month. Also, note any pelvic pain or cramps. This information will help your doctor identify whether your symptoms are caused by perimenopause or evaluate you for other gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis.
• Use relaxation techniques: Do opt for meditation and cognitive behavioral therapy as they can help you relax, recharge, manage stress, and sleep better.

If lifestyle changes do not relieve your perimenopause symptoms, talk to your gynecologist. Get answers to all your queries. Visit the best gynecology hospital in Indiranagar.