Navigating Menopause: Understanding Symptoms and Treatment Options.

Perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause, lasting 7 to 10 years in a woman's 40s and early 50s, during which estrogen levels decrease and symptoms such as hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep disturbances may occur. Treatment options include birth control pills and lifestyle changes such as increasing protein intake and exercise. Misconceptions include overlooking perimenopause and assuming normal lab results mean no changes are occurring. Education about perimenopause should start earlier to better understand this often-overlooked phase of menopause.