[Fran]

Hi everyone,

On Tuesday next week, our April power hour will be all about understanding the signs and symptoms of menopause and perimenopause. I will be on hand to answer all of your questions to provide advice and support. Join us here on the 21st April at 12pm if you would like to be involved in the power hour. I look forward to seeing you all here.

Thanks,
Fran

[Fran]

Hi everyone, A reminder of our power hour today starting at 12. I will be on hand to answer all of your questions around menopause and perimenopause.
Its easy to join! Just post questions to me in this thread and I will answer them over the hour.
Speak soon!

Fran

[Fran]

Hi all,

We are now live for todays power hour. Please submit your questions and I will answer them over the next hour.

Thanks,

Fran

[Fran]

A pre-submitted question:

What age does perimenopause usually start?

[Fran]

Great question!

Perimenopausal symptoms can start at different times for a lot of women, but it commonly starts in the 40s. It can begin earlier or later and some people notice symptoms in their late 30s. But the average seems to be around 44 plus.

[Fran]

What are perimenopausal symptoms and how do you know the difference between perimenopause and menopause?

[Fran]

Perimenopause is the stage before menopause when hormone levels change and symptoms often begin. Common symptoms include irregular periods, hot flushes, night sweats, poor sleep, mood changes, brain fog, tiredness, headaches, vaginal dryness, and joint aches.

Menopause is reached when you have gone 12 months without a period.

In short: if periods are still happening, even irregularly, it is usually perimenopause. If they have stopped for 12 months, it is menopause.

[Fran]

Can menopause affect sex drive?

[Fran]

Yes absolutely! Hormonal changes, vaginal dryness, tiredness, and mood changes can reduce libido for some people. Menopause can make you feel unwell and you may not feel like you want or have the energy to have intercourse or be intimate.

[Fran]

How long do menopause symptoms last?

[Fran]

It varies widely. Some people have symptoms for a few years, while others experience them for longer. Its very individual

[Fran]

Can you still get pregnant during perimenopause?

[Fran]

Yes – this is one of the things that is often confusing and people can forget. Pregnancy is still possible until menopause has been reached, so contraception may still be needed and people need to be aware of this.

[Fran]

The Menopause Charity have a number of resources to support with perimenopause and menopause symptoms. You may find the following link useful when wanting to find out more https://themenopausecharity.org/information-and-support/for-individuals/

[Fran]

Thats all we have time for today. Thank you to everyone that submitted questions and joined us today. Look out for our next power hour events in May when we will be talking all about reproductive health, fertility and wellbeing.

Speak soon!
Fran

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