Many women over 40 who experience irregular periods, sleep disturbances, and hot flashes believe they have reached menopause, according to Doctor Nguyen Thi Quy Khoa, deputy head of the Obstetrics Department at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City. In reality, most of them are in the transitional phase known as perimenopause, where the ovaries are still active but hormone levels begin to fluctuate. Both perimenopause and menopause are related to changes in female sex hormones, but their characteristics, timing, and health impacts differ significantly. Understanding these differences allows women to proactively adjust their diet, exercise routine, skincare, and bone health strategies, as well as manage symptoms effectively.
Here are the key differences between perimenopause and menopause:
| Distinction | Perimenopause | Menopause |
| Definition | The transitional phase before menopause, where ovarian function begins to decline and estrogen levels decrease unevenly. | The stage marked by the complete cessation of reproductive function, where the ovaries stop working. |
| Timing | Typically begins between the ages of 40 and 45, but can start earlier or later, lasting an average of 4-8 years. | Confirmed after 12 consecutive months without a period (typically between 50 and 52 years old for Vietnamese women). |
| Menstruation | The menstrual cycle becomes irregular, with shorter or longer cycles, unusually light or heavy bleeding, and potential missed periods for several months followed by a return of menstruation. | Menstruation ceases permanently. |
| Symptoms | Hot flashes, night sweats, irritability, rapid heartbeat, sleep disturbances, decreased libido, vaginal dryness, and increased susceptibility to urinary and genital infections. Hair loss, dry skin, weight gain, bone loss, mood swings, etc. | The above symptoms may continue but usually stabilize gradually; vaginal dryness, bone loss, muscle atrophy, and cardiovascular issues may pose long-term risks. |
| Hormones | Estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate erratically, while FSH levels begin to rise slightly and remain unstable. | Estrogen levels decrease and stabilize at a low level, while FSH and LH levels rise significantly. |
| Reproduction | Women can still get pregnant (although the chances are low) due to irregular ovulation. | Women cannot conceive naturally. |
Doctor Khoa notes that women under 50 who are still menstruating may be in perimenopause. Conversely, the absence of menstruation for 12 consecutive months confirms menopause. However, to accurately determine their stage, women should consult a doctor for a checkup and advice. Hormone tests (FSH, LH, Estradiol) can help confirm the specific stage, allowing doctors to provide appropriate guidance.
Before consulting a doctor about perimenopause or menopause, women should keep a record of their menstrual cycle for three months to help the doctor assess their condition. They should also inform their doctor about any signs, symptoms, or changes in their body to receive appropriate checkups and hormone therapy if needed.
Tue Diem
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