What to Know About Perimenopause Symptoms and Treatment: A Guide to Thriving Through the Transition
If you’ve started noticing changes in your body but haven’t yet reached menopause, you might be experiencing perimenopause — the transitional phase that leads up to the end of menstruation. This shift is completely natural, but the symptoms can sometimes feel anything but normal. Understanding perimenopause symptoms and treatment can help you feel more in control, supported, and ready to embrace this new stage of life.
At Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology in Coral Springs, FL, we are committed to supporting women through every phase of life — from adolescence to menopause and beyond. If you’re navigating changes and need guidance, we’re here for you.
Call us at 954-340-1050 or book an appointment online today!
What Is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause — meaning “around menopause” — is the time leading up to menopause, when the ovaries gradually reduce estrogen production. It typically begins in a woman’s 40s but can start as early as the mid-30s for some. This phase often lasts 4 to 10 years, though the length varies.
During perimenopause, hormone levels can fluctuate unpredictably, leading to a wide range of physical and emotional symptoms. Once a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a period, she is officially in menopause.
Recognizing perimenopause and understanding your treatment options is the first step in maintaining your comfort and well-being throughout this time.
Common Symptoms of Perimenopause
Symptoms during perimenopause can vary widely from woman to woman. Some may notice only subtle changes, while others may experience significant disruptions to daily life. Understanding what’s normal — and when to seek help — can make all the difference.
Here are some of the most common symptoms of perimenopause:
- Irregular periods: Changes in frequency, duration, or flow
- Hot flashes and night sweats: Sudden warmth, flushing, and perspiration
- Sleep disturbances: Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Mood swings: Irritability, anxiety, or depression
- Vaginal dryness: Discomfort during intimacy or daily activities
- Lower libido: A shift in sexual desire or arousal
- Cognitive changes: Memory lapses or difficulty concentrating (“brain fog”)
- Weight gain: Especially around the abdomen
- Hair thinning or dry skin
- Joint or muscle aches
These symptoms result from fluctuating hormone levels and can affect your physical comfort, emotional stability, and overall quality of life. If you’re experiencing any of these changes, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to just live with them.
Treatment Options for Perimenopause Symptoms
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for managing perimenopause, but the good news is that effective treatments are available. The goal is to reduce your symptoms, support your well-being, and help you feel like yourself again.
1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
HRT replaces the estrogen (and sometimes progesterone) your body is no longer producing at previous levels. It is especially effective in relieving:
- Hot flashes
- Vaginal dryness
- Sleep disturbances
- Mood changes
HRT is available in pills, patches, creams, and vaginal rings. Your provider will discuss your medical history to determine whether this treatment is safe and appropriate for you.
2. Non-Hormonal Medications
If you prefer to avoid hormone therapy or have health conditions that make it inadvisable, other medications may help. These can include:
- Antidepressants to ease mood swings and hot flashes
- Gabapentin for hot flashes and sleep improvement
- Clonidine to reduce night sweats and blood pressure
3. Vaginal Estrogen
For women experiencing vaginal dryness, low-dose estrogen creams, tablets, or rings applied directly to the vaginal area can provide targeted relief without affecting the rest of the body as strongly as systemic HRT.
4. Lifestyle Adjustments
Sometimes, simple changes can significantly improve symptoms. Consider:
- Eating a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to protect bones
- Exercising regularly to manage weight, boost mood, and strengthen muscles
- Avoiding triggers like spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol that can worsen hot flashes
- Practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing
- Improving sleep hygiene with a consistent bedtime routine and screen-free time before bed
5. Supplements and Natural Remedies
Some women explore herbal supplements such as black cohosh, evening primrose oil, or phytoestrogens. While some may find relief, it’s important to talk to your provider before trying these options, as they can interact with medications or be unsuitable for certain health conditions.
Find an experienced provider who will work with you to build a treatment plan tailored to your symptoms, goals, and preferences.
Why It’s Important to Seek Support
Too often, women are told to “just deal with” perimenopausal symptoms, when in reality, these symptoms can be disruptive and distressing. Seeking help is not only reasonable — it’s empowering.
Supportive care can help you:
- Feel more like yourself by managing symptoms that interfere with daily life
- Reduce health risks, such as bone loss (osteoporosis) and cardiovascular disease
- Improve sexual health and intimate relationships
- Stay mentally well during what can be an emotional time of change
- Understand the difference between perimenopause and other possible causes of symptoms, like thyroid disorders or depression
You deserve to feel heard, supported, and cared for.
Perimenopause Symptoms and Treatment: How Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology Can Help
At Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology, we provide compassionate, personalized care for women navigating the changes of perimenopause and menopause. We take the time to listen to your symptoms, understand your goals, and recommend treatments that work for your life.
Our services include:
- Hormonal and non-hormonal treatment options
- Annual well-woman exams and routine screenings
- Bone density scans to monitor for osteoporosis
- Nutritional and lifestyle counseling
- Sexual health and emotional well-being support
We welcome patients from Coral Springs, Tamarac, Parkland, Coconut Creek, Deerfield, North Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Margate, and surrounding areas.
Take Control of Your Health Journey with Expert Perimenopause Support
Perimenopause is a natural part of life, but that doesn’t mean you have to navigate it alone. Understanding perimenopause symptoms and treatment options can make this transition more manageable — and even empowering. With compassionate care and expert guidance, you can take proactive steps toward feeling your best.
Call Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology at 954-340-1050 or book your appointment online to start your personalized care journey today.
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