As women age, their bodies naturally go through hormonal changes, and perimenopause is an important phase that leads up to menopause. One of the first signs of perimenopause is often irregular periods. While it’s normal for your menstrual cycle to vary during this time, it’s important to know when these changes could point to a health issue.
In this article, we will look at how your menstrual cycle changes during perimenopause, when to talk to a doctor, and why having the best health insurance company in India can help with the medical costs that come with this stage of life.
What to Know About Perimenopause and Your Periods?
Perimenopause typically starts in a woman’s 40s, though some may begin noticing changes in their mid-30s. This period can last from just a few months to more than ten years before menopause, which is marked by not having a period for a full year. The main reason for the changes during perimenopause is the fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels, which have a direct impact on the menstrual cycle.
Normal Changes in Menstrual Cycles During Perimenopause
Every woman’s experience with perimenopause is unique, but here are some typical changes that can occur:
- Irregular cycles: You might notice your periods come earlier, later, or sometimes not at all for months.
- Unpredictable flow: Some months could bring heavier bleeding, while others are surprisingly light.
- Changes in duration: Your period might only last a couple of days or stretch beyond a week.
- Intensified PMS: Perimenopause symptoms like mood swings, bloating, breast tenderness, and irritability may become more pronounced.
These variations are a result of the hormonal changes that come with perimenopause, but it’s good to keep an eye on changes that might signal a more serious concern.
When to Worry About Irregular Periods?
While it’s common to have some irregularities during perimenopause, certain perimenopause symptoms should prompt a visit to the doctor. Seek medical assistance if you suffer from:
- Heavy bleeding: If you soak through pads or tampons within an hour or pass large clots, this needs attention.
- Very frequent cycles: If your periods come less than 21 days apart, it may indicate hormonal imbalances or other health issues.
- Long-lasting periods: Bleeding that continues for more than ten days is concerning.
- Severe pain: Intense pain that disrupts your daily life might be a sign of conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, or an infection.
- Bleeding between periods: Spotting can sometimes mean polyps, infections, or something more serious, like uterine cancer.
- Bleeding after menopause: Any bleeding after a full year without periods should be checked right away.
Health issues such as fibroids, endometrial hyperplasia, thyroid problems, and even some cancers can lead to unusual menstrual changes. Consulting with a gynecologist can help pinpoint the cause and decide on the best treatment.
Dealing with Irregular Periods and Other Symptoms of Perimenopause
While perimenopause is a natural process, it can bring on frustrating symptoms. The good news is that you can manage these issues through lifestyle changes and medical treatments.
Making Lifestyle Changes for Better Hormonal Balance
- Eat a balanced diet: Focus on foods rich in calcium, healthy fats, and protein to support your bones and hormonal health.
- Get regular exercise: Activities like strength training, yoga, and aerobic exercises can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce stress.
- Manage stress: Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and good sleep routines can help ease mood swings and anxiety.
- Cut back on caffeine and alcohol: These can make hot flashes worse, disturb sleep, and impact your overall health.
Medical Options for Severe Symptoms
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): This can help with hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness, but it may not be right for everyone.
- Birth control pills: Low-dose contraceptives can help regulate periods and lessen heavy bleeding.
- Non-hormonal medications: Certain medications, like antidepressants or specific blood pressure drugs, can assist with hot flashes and mood swings.
Why Good Health Insurance in India Matters for Perimenopause Care?
Managing perimenopause often involves multiple doctor appointments, hormone tests, ultrasounds, and sometimes treatments for related issues like osteoporosis or heart conditions. Without proper health insurance, these medical costs can add up quickly.
What to Look for in a Health Insurance Plan:-
- Coverage for gynecological visits and tests: Your plan should include routine check-ups, hormone testing, and ultrasounds.
- Support for menopause-related health issues: Coverage for osteoporosis, heart disease risks, and hormone therapy is important for long-term care.
- Cashless hospitalisation: Having access to an extensive network of hospitals makes getting quality care easier.
Understanding the Changes and Seeking the Right Care
Perimenopause is an important stage in life, but it can be managed. Irregular periods are common, yet symptoms like heavy bleeding, very frequent cycles, and prolonged periods shouldn’t be overlooked. Making lifestyle changes, exploring medical treatments, and having good health insurance can help you navigate this transition smoothly.
By staying informed and proactive about your health, you can embrace this new phase with confidence and a sense of well-being.
Choosing the best health insurance in India ensures you can get the care you need without financial worry. Niva Bupa, for instance, offers plans specifically focused on women’s health.