Premenopause: It is the time when women just start to experience irregular menstrual periods but does not show any classic menopausal symptoms such as vaginal dryness or hot flashes.
Perimenopause: It is the time from menstruation periods to having absolutely no periods at all.
The average duration of this stage is around 4 years. It is the time when menstrual periods become irregular. These irregularities continue for one year until menstrual period finally stops. During this period ovaries slowly stop releasing eggs. They also stop producing hormones such as estrogen, testosterone, androgen and progesterone.
Depression is one of the symptoms of perimenopause.
Before actual menopause occurs there are fluctuations in hormone levels and your menstrual periods become erratic. Before estrogen levels finally decrease, you experience menopausal symptoms like mood swings, diminished concentration, vaginal dryness and hot flashes.
The following vitamins and herbs are useful in Perimenopause: Primrose oil which contains Linoleic acid and Gammalinolenic acid is very useful in Perimenopause. Linseed oil is commonly used in the treatment of perimenopause. People suffering from perimenopause should include foods that are rich in Vitamin E. Polyunsaturated vegetable oil, nuts; seeds have a high proportion of Vitamin E. They can help in preventing hot flashes. Whole grains, potatoes, seeds, nuts, bananas and whole grains and cauliflower are high in Vitamin B6 and should be included in the diet.
Women entering menopause have a lot of questions in their mind. They are concerned about the health issues. They are worried about how to maintain emotional and physical health. When actual menopause occurs there is cessation of menstruation. Diagnosis can be made after a woman has completed one full year without any menstrual period. Cigarette smokers are vulnerable to menopausal symptoms.
