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Medical experts (and society) are finally starting to take menopause seriously.
Design by Channing Smith
But, frankly, navigating premenopause symptoms, a.k.a.perimenopause, can still be kind of infuriating.
The process is gradual, and each month brings a full state of flux.
Depending on your ovaries and folliclestechnically termed your ovarian reserveperimenopause can begin in your 30s or earlier.
Symptoms may appear gradually over time, although some women can remain completely asymptomatic.
Blood work is also not spectacularly helpful during this time, says Dr. Minkin.
The problem is the ovarian function is declining, but it’s not a linear curve.
That doesn’t mean you and your doctor can’t still treat premenopause symptoms.
Here’s what you’re gonna wanna know.
What are some premenopause symptoms?
Symptoms of perimenopause very closely mirrormenopause symptoms.
The conversation with your doctor should be twofold, says Dr. La Folette.
Then track and discuss changes in your moods and cycles.
What are treatments for perimenopause symptoms?
Since premenopause and full-blown menopause symptoms are largely the same, perimenopause is often treated with standardmenopause treatments.
(Keep in mind, you could still getpregnant in perimenopause.)
Aside from standard menopause treatments, lifestyle changes make a big difference in treating premenopause symptoms.
And watch your alcohol intake, as drinking can exacerbate sleep problems.
For vaginal dryness she recommends a gel lubricant likeVag of Honor.
Macaela MacKenzie is a writer and editor specializing in wellness.
