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Navigating perimenopause and menopause should not feel like stumbling through the dark
Usually starting in the mid-40s, perimenopause lasts about four years on average but may go on for a decade in some women
A woman’s reproductive health changes throughout various stages of life, with hormonal changes being the prime mover in each phase. Perimenopause is one such stage, the years preceding menopause when estrogen and progesterone levels start to fluctuate unpredictably. Dr Sheetal Jindal-MBBS, MD OBG, EPHM (IIM Kolkata) Senior consultant and director Medical Genetics program, Jindal IVF Chandigarh shares all you need to know:
Usually starting in the mid-40s, perimenopause lasts about four years on average but may go on for a decade in some women. This time is usually also marked by symptoms such as hot flushes, mood swings, insomnia, and irregular periods, which can greatly affect daily functioning. Many women go into perimenopause with very little knowledge of what to expect and are unaware of the impact due to the absence of formal education—94% indicate not having received any menopause instruction in school. The unawareness instead causes confusion and delays in seeing a doctor for advice, as almost half of perimenopausal women never speak about their symptoms with their healthcare provider.
Menopause itself occurs when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months, usually at age 51. Though this signals the natural end of fertility, it also brings with it new health issues, ranging from loss of bone density to cardiovascular shifts. Most women suffer life-altering symptoms, but half or more wait at least six months before consulting a doctor. Even among postmenopausal women, only 58% speak with their physicians about menopause-related issues. This knowledge deficit must be overcome by education and frank discussion with medical providers in order to enable women to gain control of this process and maintain long-term health.
Navigating perimenopause and menopause should not feel like stumbling through the dark. These life stages, though natural, are often shrouded in stigma, misinformation, and silence—leaving many women unprepared for the physical and emotional changes they bring. As Dr. Sheetal Jindal rightly points out, early awareness, education, and proactive health management are key to improving quality of life during this transition. It’s crucial to normalize conversations around symptoms, treatment options, and long-term risks such as osteoporosis and heart disease. Empowering women with accurate information, access to care, and encouragement to seek medical advice can significantly reduce the distress associated with this phase. Open dialogue—not just with healthcare providers but also within families, workplaces, and schools—can bridge the knowledge gap. Perimenopause is not just a medical milestone—it’s a call to reclaim autonomy, health, and dignity. With the right support, every woman can navigate this chapter with strength, clarity, and confidence.
