Young Women Are Experiencing Untreated Perimenopause

According to a recent study published by npj Women’s Health, many women between the ages of 30 and 35 experience perimenopausal symptoms. They associate their symptoms with getting older or dismiss them because of the cultural stigma surrounding menopause in general.

What’s perimenopause?

According to Dr. Jacqueline Sanchez, an obstetrician and gynecologist with UHealth Jackson Specialty Care at Jackson South Medical Plaza, perimenopause is the transitional period between a woman’s reproductive years and menopause. It’s marked by a gradual decline in ovarian function, leading to changes in hormone levels, particularly estrogen.

How does perimenopause affect young women?

Physical changes:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Heavy or irregular periods
• Vaginal dryness
• Pain during sex
• Trouble sleeping
• Decreased libido
• Weight gain

Other symptoms include:

• Breast tenderness
• Changes in skin elasticity
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Memory struggles or brain fog
• Muscle aches
• Urinary tract infections or frequent vaginal infections

What treatment options are available?

Treatment for perimenopause varies from patient to patient. Some options include hormone therapy, medication to help with depression and anxiety, and lifestyle changes including healthy diet and exercise, stress reduction, and getting enough sleep.

While perimenopause is typically found in women in their mid-40s, all women should be aware of symptoms so they can speak with their doctor if they’re concerned.

Dr. Jacqueline Sanchez is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist and Menopause Society certified practitioner with UHealth Jackson Specialty Care at Jackson South Medical Plaza, specializing in menopause, minimally invasive gynecological surgery, and obstetrics. To make an appointment with Dr. Sanchez, call 305-585-4666.