Perimenopause is not only still a taboo topic but also a stage of a woman’s life often shrouded in myths and misunderstandings. In reality, it is a natural transitional phase that precedes menopause, and understanding it can save you a lot of stress, anxiety, and significantly improve your quality of life and hormonal health. Along with specialists, we have compiled the 10 most common myths about perimenopause and menopause, based on the most reliable and current scientific data.
Myth 1: Perimenopause is the same as menopause
Fact: Perimenopause is the period preceding menopause, covering the time from the appearance of the first hormonal symptoms until the cessation of menstruation for at least 12 months. Menopause, however, is a permanent state, defined as no menstruation for 12 consecutive months. Perimenopause usually begins around ages 40–45 and can last from several to even over ten years. The average age of menopause in developed countries is about 51-52 years, with perimenopause starting roughly 10 years earlier.
Myth 2: Perimenopause begins suddenly and without warning
Fact: This process develops gradually. Hormonal changes, mainly a decrease in estrogen and progesterone production, start as early as around age 40. Variability in hormone levels causes menstrual cycles to become irregular. Studies show that even 60–70% of women at this age experience such changes. Scientific research indicates that early symptoms are often subtle and can appear several years before full menopause. The earliest signs include irregular cycles, such as cycles longer than 35 days, related to slowed ovulation. This irregularity is one of the most common early signs. Additionally, heavy or scanty periods, night sweats, mood swings, sleep disturbances, fatigue, skin and hair changes, weight gain, concentration problems, joint and muscle pains all point to the initial stages of approaching perimenopause.
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Myth 3: Perimenopause equals only hormonal problems
Fact: While the primary changes involve hormones—mainly fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone—perimenopause also involves other health effects, such as mental issues (irritability, nervousness, anxiety), metabolic changes (difficulty losing weight, excessive fatigue), or sleep disturbances (insomnia, early awakenings). Reduced estrogen levels also affect other systems—bone, cardiovascular, metabolic, and nervous—raising the risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome. It’s a whole set of interconnected changes, not just hormonal issues.
Myth 4: Perimenopause marks the end of sexual life
Fact: Although many women believe that declining hormone levels reduce libido and comfort during sex, many symptoms (e.g., vaginal dryness or decreased libido) can be effectively managed or treated to improve sexual quality of life. There’s no reason to give up on intimacy during perimenopause—help is available. Sometimes, solutions include exercise, a proper diet (which can boost natural estrogen levels), lubrication products, or even estrogen therapy—always under medical supervision.
Myth 5: Lower estrogen levels are a problem only after age 50
Fact: Estrogen decline begins during perimenopause and can start as early as age 40. Statistics indicate that the first symptoms may appear around 40–45 years old, or even earlier.
Myth 6: Perimenopause is only a physical problem, not an emotional one
Fact: Hormonal changes during this period affect both body and mind. Many women experience mood swings, irritability, concentration issues, anxiety, or even depression. Studies show that 40–50% of women report emotional and mood-related complaints during this stage. Recognizing these symptoms and seeking psychological or medical support can significantly improve quality of life. Remember, you're not alone and not “losing your mind”—this is a temporary phase that will pass. Support from a gynecologist or endocrinologist knowledgeable about menopause can be very helpful.
Myth 7: Perimenopause is a time when you can forget about reproductive health
Fact: Even though this period marks a gradual loss of natural fertility, maintaining reproductive health is still important. If pregnancy is planned, medical assistance can still help. Regular gynecological check-ups allow early detection of potential pathological changes, which may also relate to other health issues like heart disease or osteoporosis.
Myth 8: During perimenopause, contraception is no longer necessary
Fact: Although most women realize that natural fertility decreases, there is still a risk of pregnancy. Even in the late 40s or early 50s, if periods are irregular and unpredictable, it doesn’t mean pregnancy is impossible. Therefore, contraception should still be used if pregnancy is not planned. Lack of awareness about this can lead to unplanned pregnancies and health complications.
Myth 9: Perimenopause marks the end of a "good" life because everything gets worse
Fact: This is a harmful myth! Seeing perimenopause as the end of youth or an active life only increases fear and unnecessary stress among women. In reality, it’s a natural developmental stage that can be navigated well with proper knowledge and support. A healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, physical activity, regular check-ups, and modern hormone therapies (like hormone replacement therapy) can significantly improve comfort and quality of life during this time. Although this phase can be challenging—similar to puberty because of hormonal fluctuations—it’s just another stage of life, not the end. Accepting that hormonal functions naturally fade and change, and learning how to manage symptoms, can greatly improve well-being. Perimenopause is simply a natural step in a woman’s life, not the end of everything!
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Myth 10: Only women go through menopause
Fact: This common misconception is false. While menopause applies solely to women, indicating the end of their natural ovarian function, men also experience a similar process called andropause, or "male menopause." Andropause involves hormonal changes, primarily a gradual decrease in testosterone—the main male sex hormone. Unlike menopause, which is clearly defined by hormone levels and the cessation of menstruation, andropause is a more gradual, dispersed process—mainly a slow decline of testosterone by about 1% annually after age 40. Symptoms of male andropause include decreased libido, reduced muscle mass and strength, increased body fat (especially around the abdomen), lower energy and well-being, occasional dizziness, mood swings, and concentration issues.
Understanding the truth about perimenopause and dispelling common myths is crucial for a healthy and conscious approach to one’s body. Recognizing symptoms, proper diagnostics, and medical support allow women to navigate this stage with less stress and a positive outlook. Every woman over 40 should actively care for her health, remembering that perimenopause, while challenging, does not mark the end of activity, youth, or life satisfaction!