Perimenopause is the transition before menopause. Hormone levels fluctuate, and for many women this brings unwelcome symptoms. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is one of the most discussed treatment options.
Perimenopause symptoms
According to the NHS, common signs include:
- periods that come more or less often, and get heavier or lighter;
- hot flushes and night sweats;
- sleep problems, mood swings and low mood;
- vaginal dryness and difficulty with concentration or memory.
Symptoms typically last 7 to 9 years, sometimes longer.
What is HRT?
HRT is mainly oestrogen, given as tablets, patches, spray or gel. If you still have a womb, progestogen is added to protect its lining. Testosterone gel or cream is sometimes used for low sexual desire.
Benefits and risks
Benefits: eases hot flushes, night sweats, sleep problems, anxiety and vaginal dryness, and helps maintain bone density. The NHS says the benefits of HRT usually outweigh the risks. Breast cancer: around 5 extra cases in every 1,000 women who take combined HRT for 5 years. The risk rises the longer you take it and falls after stopping. Oestrogen-only HRT carries little or no increased risk.