What is the Difference Between Perimenopause and Menopause?

“Perimenopause or menopause?” The question comes to the fore especially when the menstrual cycle begins to change. Although these two concepts are related to each other, they do not describe the same period. While perimenopause is a transition period that can span years, menopause is the turning point when menstruation ends permanently.

What is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the menopausal transition period when the hormone production of the ovaries and ovulation patterns begin to change. Menstruations may become shorter, longer, more intense or less frequent. Menstruation may be skipped in some months.

During this period, hot flashes, night sweats, sleep changes, mood swings, headache, change in sexual desire, vaginal dryness or urinary complaints may occur. The same symptoms do not occur in every woman.

What is Menopause?

Menopause is a retrograde milestone defined by 12 consecutive months of no menstrual period without any other cause. Bleeding after menopause is not considered normal and should be evaluated.

Menopause is not a disease that begins in a single day. Changes in perimenopause progress over time, and some symptoms may continue in the postmenopausal period.

Differences Between Perimenopause and Menopause

• Menstrual pattern: Menstruation may become irregular in perimenopause; In menopause, there is no menstrual period for 12 months.
• Hormone change: Fluctuation is evident in perimenopause; After menopause, hormone levels reach a new balance.
• Symptom course: Hot flashes, sleep and mood symptoms may change throughout the transition.
• Evaluation: Age, menstrual history, bleeding pattern and symptoms are considered together; A single test may not be sufficient for every person.

What Symptoms Should Be Considered?

Evaluation is required in cases of very heavy or prolonged bleeding, bleeding between menstruations, bleeding after sexual intercourse, signs of anemia, or irregularities with the possibility of pregnancy. Post-menopausal bleeding is especially important.

If vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, burning, frequent urination, or recurrent urinary tract infections affect the quality of life, they should be reported to the physician. Menopause may not be the only cause of these complaints.

What Can Be Noted for Follow-Up?

Taking note of menstrual start dates, significant changes in the amount of bleeding, frequency of hot flashes and night sweats, sleep patterns, and medications used may facilitate the interview. It is also important to write down how symptoms affect daily life.

Treatment or hormone use should be planned by considering personal risks. Supplements purchased online or random use of hormones are not a safe approach.

For genital complaints during menopause , you can review our genital complaints page related to menopause .

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does perimenopause last?

Duration varies from person to person. There may be a short transition period for some people and a longer transition period for others.

Is a blood test required to diagnose menopause?

The same test is not required for every person. Age, menstrual history and symptoms are evaluated together; Your doctor may request a test if necessary.

Is bleeding after menopause normal?

Bleeding after menopause is not considered normal and its cause needs to be evaluated.

Is pregnancy possible in perimenopause?

Pregnancy is possible as long as ovulation has not stopped completely. The need for protection should be discussed with the physician depending on the individual situation.

Sources

1. The Menopause Society – Perimenopause
2. ACOG – The Menopause Years

This article has been prepared for general information purposes. It is not a substitute for examination, diagnosis or personalized treatment advice.