What am I looking at here?
Several months later, Staley started having night sweats.
Her provider then ordered a follicle-stimulating hormone test, which confirmed that she is transitioning to menopause.
Illustration by Tara Anand for Verywell Health
Always trust your gut and make the doctor initiate the test, Staley said.
The phase leading up to menopauseknown asperimenopausetypically affects women in their 40s.
I dont feel like Ive gotten a lot of good counseling and information from my doctors, Staley said.
What Is Perimenopause Like?
Perimenopause is often more complicated than expected.
Like puberty, perimenopause happens at different times for everyone.
I didnt understand where it came from, Johnson said.
About 15% of people might experiencevaginal atrophy, orgenitourinary syndrome of menopause, during perimenopause.
Vaginal atrophy is more common after menopause, affecting around 50%70% of people.
Why Is Menopause Poorly Understood?
Many healthcare providers arent prepared to talk about menopause, either.
Not that many OB-GYNs are experienced, she said.
Ive done a lot of education after my training to learn more about menopause.
Talking about menopause with other people can also provide a sense of relief.
What This Means For You
Menopause symptoms may start as early as your mid-30s.
National Institute on Aging.What is menopause?
The North American Menopause Society.Menopause 101: A primer for the perimenopausal.
2020;12(4):e7586.
