Perimenopause can be difficult to recognize. Unlike menopause, which is defined by the absence of a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months, perimenopause is a transition that can unfold over several years, with symptoms varying significantly from woman to woman.
In fact, one in three U.S. women ages 35 and older are unsure whether they’re in perimenopause, according to new research from The Menopause Society, with 28% citing a lack of knowledge as a key reason for that uncertainty.
As women mark World Perimenopause Day (September 22nd), menopause expert Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, MD, FACOG, is encouraging women to pay attention to changes in their bodies and start conversations with their healthcare providers, even when they aren't sure what those changes mean. “Perimenopause can be confusing because the symptoms are not always obvious, and they can look different from woman to woman,” said Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, OB-GYN and Clinical Professor at Yale School of Medicine. “Women may experience changes in their sleep, mood, energy, periods or vaginal health without realizing they could be connected to the menopausal transition. You don’t need to have all the answers before starting a conversation with your healthcare provider, recognizing that something has changed is reason enough to ask questions and seek support.”
What Women Should Know About Perimenopause:
- You don’t have to wait for your period to change. While changes to menstrual cycles are a common sign of perimenopause, other symptoms can emerge before periods become noticeably irregular. Paying attention to changes in sleep, mood, energy, temperature regulation or vaginal health can help women recognize potential signs of perimenopause rather than waiting for symptoms to become disruptive.
- It can be difficult to know what’s perimenopause and that’s normal. Perimenopause doesn't look the same for everyone, and symptoms can overlap with other everyday health concerns. Women who notice changes they can't explain should consider bringing them up with their healthcare provider rather than trying to self-diagnose.
- Don’t overlook vaginal health and intimacy. Perimenopause can affect sexual health, including vaginal dryness and discomfort. These symptoms can impact everyday comfort, intimacy and confidence, but women don’t have to simply accept them as a part of aging. Talking with a healthcare provider can help women understand their symptoms and explore options for relief.
- Know that there are options. Women experiencing vaginal dryness have options ranging from lifestyle approaches and over-the-counter products to prescription treatments, depending on their individual needs. While many women may reach for a lubricant, such as Replens Silky Smooth Lubricant, to reduce friction and support comfort during intimacy, lubricants are designed for use in the moment. Vaginal moisturizers, on the other hand, are designed to support ongoing vaginal moisture. For women looking for a hormone-free option, Replens Long-Lasting Vaginal Moisturizer replenishes moisture for up to three days, helping support ongoing vaginal comfort.
This World Perimenopause Day, women are encouraged to recognize the changes they may be experiencing, talk to their healthcare providers and know that vaginal health is an important part of the conversation.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260922863168/en/
