There’s a lot of hype around perimenopause. Don’t buy it.
Perimenopause has entered the chat. Perimenopause—and its better-known relative, menopause—used to be considered taboo. Not anymore, thanks at least in part to TV doctors and social media influencers. Perhaps it’s my age, but these days, both my algorithm and my conversations with friends increasingly swing toward perimenopause. Menopause is defined as the life stage that…
Perimenopause and menopause, previously considered taboo topics, have gained attention thanks to TV doctors and social media influencers. Perimenopause is the period before menopause, which can last for years and feature symptoms typically associated with menopause. However, information about perimenopause is more prevalent and accessible than ever.
Despite this, women in their 40s should not assume they are in perimenopause and start spending money on costly tests, apps, or supplements. There is no definitive test for perimenopause as hormone levels fluctuate greatly during this time. HRT, designed to replace declining hormones, can be helpful for many menopausal women but may not be effective in perimenopausal women.
HRT can also cause abnormal bleeding. Marketing for supplements aimed at middle-aged and menopausal women lacks strong evidence, and some women may unknowingly take substances like testosterone supplements. Not all midlife symptoms can be attributed to hormones, and women should seek medical advice to rule out other causes.
Written by urgent.news from MIT Tech Review Biotech's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
