Perimenopause and Menopause

Each woman’s menopause experience is different. What is important to remember is that menopause is a normal, natural event – not a disease! It is defined as the final menstrual period and is usually confirmed when a woman has missed her menstrual cycle for 12 months in a row What that means is that our ovaries are done doing their job of making estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. We should all thank our ovaries for their excellent service!

Many of the symptoms associated with menopause – hot flashes, night sweats, poor sleep, fatigue, brain fog and mood swings – actually begin during perimenopause. Perimenopause is the period of transition between our reproductive years and menopause. This transition generally lasts 4 – 8 years and is marked by pronounced changes in the menstrual cycle until, gradually, it stops completely. That is when menopause begins.

For all women over 40, this is an important time to start paying close attention to your physical health and the messages your body is sending.

The North American Menopause Society is a great resource for all things perimenopause and menopause – information, facts and support. Check out their “Are We There Yet?” guided tour to start navigating your way through your journey.

Tara Allmen, MD Credentials:
– Board Certified Gynecologist and Nationally Certified Menopause Practitioner
– New York City’s Leading Expert In Menopause
– President, North American Menopause Society Foundation
– Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology
– New York City’s Top Gynecologist, 2015
– Five Star Rating From Doctor’s Choice Awards
– Five Star Rating From HealthGrades