How do perimenopause symptoms differ from menopause symptoms?
Symptoms of perimenopause are the same as those of menopause, when menses do not occur. Yet the symptoms of perimenopause disappear when menses resumes. During actual menopause, the symptoms of menopause may remain indefinitely or may become less bothersome. Menopause for a normal middle-aged woman is clinically defined as not having a menstrual period for one year. Are there any health risks associated with this transition phase? As menopause nears, bone loss may accelerate. Women also tend to gain weight, which can be associated with increased risk for high blood pressure and diabetes. What treatments are available to ease the discomforts of perimenopause? Symptoms of perimenopause or menopause may be relieved through the use of hormonal therapy given either as low-dose oral contraceptive pills or as estrogen and progestin supplements. When hormone therapy is given to women during perimenopause, it will alleviate symptoms during those times when there are no menses. When these women
