PERIMENOPAUSAL SYMPTOMS
Perimenopause is defined as a period of a women’s life before she enters menopause. This timeframe can last a few years or for some women much longer. With perimenopause the ovaries gradually stop working and ovulation may become erratic, cycles and flow can become irregular. To be considered in actual menopause, a woman must go12 full months without a period. However, many of the symptoms associated with menopause can begin in the perimenopause phase. These symptoms can include: hot flashes, insomnia, mood swings, fatigue, vaginal dryness/sex drive changes, increased frequency of urination, muscle and joint pain, headaches/migraines, bone loss, brain fog/difficulty concentrating, and even weight gain(especially around the abdomen). These symptoms can be the result of estrogen levels that are beginning to decrease in preparation for menopause as well as fluctuations in other hormone levels. Comprehensive testing including a complete hormone panel, liver panel, evaluation of vitamin and mineral levels, as well as an examination of lifestyle, diet, and exogenous hormonal exposures will be necessary to gain a complete picture of all contributing factors resulting in your perimenopausal symptoms. Dr. Williams will then design an individualized plan based upon all these findings.