Health Center - Perimenopause
Not sure why you're waking in a sweat? Never sure when or if your period will occur or why you bleed so much when it does? You may not think you're old enough for menopause, but perimenopause—the transitional time leading up to menopause—can last several years. Let us help you manage this stage of your life.
Managing Perimenopausal Symptoms
Create a cool environment. If possible, keep the temperature on the cool side (try to take control of the thermostat in your office and home) and buy a small fan for your desk.
Practice stress reduction techniques. Deep breathing, mindful meditation and visualization can help you relax and either avoid a hot flash or render it less intense. Such efforts can also help combat insomnia, whether it occurs as you're trying to fall asleep or when you wake in the middle of the night.
Turn your bedroom into a perimenopausal haven. Whether you're having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep or are waking up too early, there are numerous steps you can take to get a good night's sleep.
- Nix the caffeine. It interferes with sleep and makes you jittery. Unfortunately, that also goes for the caffeine in chocolate.
- Cool off your room. Install an overhead fan or buy a standing fan and aim it right at the bed. Open a window or lower the air conditioner. If your partner is too cold, toss him or her an extra blanket.
- Go natural. Either sleep in the nude, with just a thin sheet covering you, or stick to light, all-cotton or all-silk sleep clothes.
- And remember, even if you are taking medication to manage your perimenopausal symptoms, incorporating these lifestyle changes may make the medication more effective
