What age does perimenopause start?

Every woman is different. Some begin experiencing perimenopause as early as their 30s. Most women reach menopause between 45 and 55 . However, perimenopause can start as much as a decade beforehand. Each person is unique though you might follow your mother or your aunts.

How long does perimenopause last?

The average length is four years. However, perimenopause can last for as little as a few months or as long as a decade.

What's the difference between perimenopause and menopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional period that ends when you enter menopause. At this point, your periods will have stopped. If you do not experience a menstrual cycle for a full 12 months, you are in menopause.

At what age should a woman stop taking birth control pills?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the North American Menopause Society recommends that women continue taking birth control pills or another contraceptive until they reach menopause (or age 50-55). Some women continue taking birth control to treat certain menopause symptoms . Talk to your doctor about the best birth control pills for perimenopause symptoms.

When should you see a doctor about your perimenopausal symptoms?

As soon as you start experiencing early signs of perimenopause, you should speak to a doctor to ensure a comfortable transitional period. Urgency increases if you experience problematic symptoms like bleeding giant blood clots, pain during sex, or heavy bleeding.

Can women get pregnant even if they're perimenopausal?

Yes, women can get pregnant when they’re perimenopausal, which is why it's so important to consider birth control during perimenopause . Ovulation cycles can be unpredictable, increasing your risk of unplanned pregnancy if you are sexually active and not taking proper contraceptive measures.

Can I Take Birth Control For Perimenopause?

Medically reviewed by Sophia Yen, MD, MPH

Research shows that while menopause is a fact of life, few women feel informed on the subject. Over 68% only begin learning about perimenopause once symptoms first develop, causing many to go through this important life stage without the necessary knowledge and medical care. Consequently, many perimenopausal women suffer in silence, which is unnecessary — especially when there are safe, practical solutions to help curb the severity of symptoms. Birth control for perimenopause is one such remedy.

What Is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause — meaning “around menopause” is the period during which your ovaries gradually stop working. This transitional period involves physical and emotional changes, often developing several years before menopause. While every woman has their own experience, most will notice menstrual cycle irregularities and then piece together the greater picture based on accompanying early signs of menopause.

As of 2020, nearly 50% of women worldwide were unaware of perimenopause and were surprised when it started. This can be overwhelming, but if you’re among these women, you’re not alone.

What are the symptoms of perimenopause?

The average age for women to enter menopause is 51 years old. However, the physical changes associated with perimenopause can begin years before your final menstrual period. While the average duration of perimenopause is three to four years, some women experience physical and emotional changes for only a few months. Others go through perimenopause for as long as a decade.

Because each woman’s experience differs, you can’t compare your symptoms to a friend’s symptoms. Some women don’t experience any symptoms besides irregular periods. Others seek support to reduce the severity of hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness/discomfort/pain during intercourse. These changes are because of low or no estrogen.

Some of the most common symptoms include:

Sleep disturbances
Mood symptoms (i.e., increased depression and anxiety)
Irregular period bleeding (more, fewer, heavier, lighter)
Vaginal dryness
Hot flashes and night sweats
Decreased sex drive
Bladder infections
Leaking urine, peeing more frequently

Some women may also experience trouble focusing or concentrating and suffer short-term memory issues, which may cause them to seek treatment.

These symptoms can last months to years.

Should You Take Birth Control During Perimenopause?

Treating symptoms of perimenopause with birth control may seem like an odd remedy. However, hormonal birth control is not exclusively used for contraception. The hormones released from birth control pills can treat acne, PCOS, and more including perimenopause — but is it right for you?

Because no two women’s experiences are identical, you must discuss the next steps with a healthcare provider. Although the hormones in birth control are safe for most women, the risks differ depending on several variables. For example, pre-existing conditions and heavy smoking can increase risks of blood clots, stroke, and thus death.

Birth Control Options for Perimenopause Symptoms

So, what types of birth control for perimenopause are available? Each option has advantages and disadvantages, and some are better suited for some women than others. Knowing what’s available helps you: weigh your options better and ask your healthcare team more specific questions based on your concerns and current health status.

Birth control pills

Taking birth control pills for perimenopause can help you reduce your hormone fluctuations. However, there are 40 different formulations of birth control pills, so it’s useful that you use a Pandia Health doctor to find out which type of birth control pill is best for your unique needs.

Hormonal intrauterine device (IUD)

Another option is a hormonal IUD, ideal for women experiencing heavy bleeding during perimenopause. Hormonal IUDs contain a synthetic progesterone that helps lessen bleeding but will not treat other perimenopausal symptoms associated with decreasing estrogen (such as hot flashes, dry vagina). The hormonal IUD can be used alongside estrogen therapy which will help relieve symptoms such as hot flashes and sleeping issues.

However, there are some potential side effects, and because IUDs can stop women from getting a monthly bleed (aka period), it can be tough to tell if you’ve entered menopause. But there are other ways to check.

Get Birth Control for Perimenopause Symptoms

The board-certified doctors at Pandia Health can prescribe birth control for perimenopause right from the comfort of your own home. Best of all, we free ship your prescription straight to your door every month.

Choosing the Right Birth Control for Perimenopause Symptoms

The right birth control for perimenopause depends on what makes the most sense for your unique needs and preferences. Consider the following.

Do you have pre-existing health conditions?

Estrogen-containing contraceptives are not recommended if you have a history of: estrogen-dependent cancer, blood clots, heart disease, etc. While most potential interactions involve physical symptoms, your doctor must also be mindful of pre-existing mental health issues. For example, if you have depression, understanding the link between hormonal contraception and mood disorders is vital when choosing the right pill for you. Progestogen-only contraceptives should be used with caution if you have a history of depression.

Do you smoke?

If you smoke, consult a doctor about your options. Taking birth control while smoking can increase the risk of cardiovascular issues like strokes and heart attacks. If you are over 35, smoke, and want to start taking birth control or change your birth control method, you must consult with a doctor.

What are your specific symptoms?

For instance, are you experiencing a flareup of acne because of perimenopause? Do you want to reduce hot flashes? If these symptoms are present, oral hormonal contraceptives may be an excellent option. Another reason many perimenopausal women choose to go on birth control pills is that this medication may help reduce vaginal dryness and prevent bone loss.

Get Personalized Birth Control Advice From Our Expert Doctors

Ready to start treating your perimenopause symptoms with birth control? Pandia's board-certified doctors offer personalized prescription to fit your needs.

Get Birth Control for Perimenopause symptoms Delivered by Pandia Health

If you have discussed your options with a doctor and have decided to start taking birth control pills, patch, or ring for perimenopause, try Pandia Health! Our birth control delivery service sends your prescription delivered straight to your mailbox every month with free delivery, with a free goody included! Get started with Pandia Health today.

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Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes and is NOT a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider before starting or changing birth control.

Should You Take Birth Control for Perimenopause Symptoms?