Perimenopause and Menopause

June 25, 2004

Menopause

“The Change”

No wonder they call it “The Change.”

For there is little about the process of perimenopause and menopause

that is static. Instead, it is a constant evolution of changes in

your body, your personality and even your life. And, unlike many

of the myths that have sprung up around this important time in a

woman’s life, it is definitely a progression, NOT a regression.

Other things perimenopause and menopause are NOT:

	They are not an illness.
	They are not optional.
	They are not an indication that your productive life is over.
	They are not (or, at least, do not have to be) uncomfortable or difficult times.
	They are not endings.
	They are not something that happens once, and then is over.

As you approach menopause, your periods get farther

and farther apart, leaving you wondering after each one, “Is

this it?” Doctors usually say, “Yes, that’s it,”

once you’ve gone 12 months without one. The time surrounding this

12-month point is called perimenopause (peri = “around”),

the months or even years during which some women can feel their

lives, and bodies, have been turned upside down. Once you’ve reached

that 12-month point, you are in the menopausal or post-menopausal

period of your life.

Read More on Menopause:

Getting Started

What is Menopause?

Quiz: Is it Menopause?

Keep it SIMPLE Tip — Taking Herbs

Nutritional Therapies

Power Nutrients for Menopause

HRT

Making the HRT Decision

Who Benefits from HRT

If You Must Take HRT

JAMA Study on HRT

Weaning off HRT