When women's bodies begin to transition into menopause--the period of hormonal changes that result in the cessation of ovulation and menstruation---the transition is known as perimenopause. Perimenopause can last as little as two years, or as long as eight years, according to the Mayo Clinic, and it involves a number of hormonal changes and symptoms in the body. Once menopause strikes, those symptoms may become more severe and will eventually result in infertility and the loss of the monthly menstrual cycle.
Changes in Menstruation
As your body prepares to stop menstruation, ovulation (the release of an egg) will happen less frequently. As a result, your monthly menstrual cycle may begin to change. You may find that your periods are more irregular than usual, and your bleeding may change---you may suddenly experience heavy or very light bleeding, or fluctuate between the two. It's also common to miss periods, and not have one every month.
Sexual Changes
Many women in perimenopause find that they don't have the same desire for sex that they once did. Vaginal dryness may also occur because of less estrogen production, which can make sex uncomfortable or even painful.
Insomnia
Many women find that they have trouble sleeping during menopause. You may wake up several times a night---sometimes because of night sweats---or you may have trouble falling asleep each night.
Hot Flashes and Night Sweats
With fluctuating hormones raging, changes in body temperature are common during perimenopause. Women often find themselves hot and sweaty, experiencing what's known as a hot flash. Hot flashes that happen at night are called night sweats, and can be so severe that you wake up drenched and with soaked sheets.
Emotional Changes
Perimenopause can make your emotions and moods fluctuate almost as wildly as your hormones. Many women may find that they're feeling depressed or more irritable than normal. Moodiness is also common during perimenopause.
