Menopause & Perimenopause

At WakeMed, our gynecological services team offers compassionate care and a comprehensive approach to support women through the menopausal transition.

Perimenopause

Perimenopause occurs well before you officially hit menopause. In fact, women may enter this stage 8 to 10 years ahead of menopause during your 30s or 40s. Perimenopause is marked by a decline in estrogen, which is the main female hormone produced by the ovaries.

Menopause

Menopause indicates the end of your menstrual cycles and is diagnosed after you've gone 12 months without a menstrual period. Menopause can happen in your 40s or 50s, but the average age is 51 in the United States. Menopause is a natural biological process. But the emotional and physical symptoms (such as hot flashes) may disrupt your sleep, lower your energy or affect your psychological health.

Symptoms

Symptoms and physical changes related to perimenopause can have a significant impact on a woman's sense of well-being. Several symptoms may include headaches, bleeding gums, breast pain and enlargement, bladder urgency and incontinence, bone fragility, hot flashes, hair loss and thinning, heart palpitations, skin dryness and tingling, uterine changes, weight gain, night sweats as well as psychological and mood changes.

Menopause By the Numbers

When to See a Doctor

Our WakeMed gynecological clinicians offer many effective treatments to help you during this transitional period. If you have any symptoms that are disrupting your life, schedule an appointment to see one of our physicians. If you experience vaginal bleeding in your postmenopausal years (after your period has stopped) do not delay to seek care.