Before Menopause, Perimenopause

MénopauseTémoignant of stopping the production of hormones by the ovaries, the onset of menopause is difficult to pinpoint because the cessation of ovarian activity is gradual. Menopause and is preceded by a period, which lasts on average 3 to 4 years, where the ovaries begin to function less well. We talk about perimenopause to characterize this phase of life that become visibles to women aged 47 on average, but sometimes much sooner.

During perimenopause, ovulation are worse, leading initially to a deficit in the production of progesterone, while estrogen secretion is preserved. The relative excess of estrogen relative to progesterone can cause swelling of the breasts or abdomen or weight gain. The rules also tend to become increasingly irregular over time.

When approaching fifty, estrogen production drops to turn and vaginal dryness and hot flashes may occur.