Confusingly, the menopausal transition or ‘pre-menopause is usually just referred to as ‘the menopause’. However, this isn’t quite accurate. Real menopause doesn’t occur until one full year after your last ever period.
This is why your doctor will probably recommend that you continue to use some sort of birth control for at least 12 months after your last period.
Menopause is a specific point in time around a full year after a woman’s last period. The period leading up to that point, when a woman begins to experience changes in her period, or starts to notice other symptoms like hot flashes or fatigue is called the ‘menopausal transition’ or ‘perimenopause’.
The menopausal transition usually begins around the ages 45 and 55 and lasts around seven years but can, unfortunately, be as long as 14 years for some women. The duration depends on lifestyle factors of the women, such as whether she is a smoker, the age menopause begins, and also race and ethnicity.
During perimenopause, your body’s production of estrogen and progesterone, the two hormones made by the ovaries, can take dips.
This menopausal transition affects every woman in their own way and in various ways. Your body will begin to use energy differently; your fat cells will change, and, unfortunately, you may gain weight more quickly. You might also experience changes in your bone or heart health and energy levels.
