Is Perimenopause the Same as Early Menopause? | PYHP 131

In this episode, we talk about the difference between perimenopause and menopause. Both Dr. Maki and I (Dr. Davidson) have worked with women in perimenopause and menopause since 2004 and sometimes get a bit myopic and technical when it comes to explaining the differences. The other day, a patient of Dr Maki’s asked the question, ‘Is perimenopause actually early menopause’? This is such an excellent, straightforward question. The question made us both pause. The answer is no; perimenopause is not early menopause. But you can imagine that many others may be asking this question, too. In this episode, we breakdown this question into: – What is early menopause, and is there such a thing? – When does perimenopause really start? – Can you have a period in perimenopause? – Can you have a period in menopause? – If you don’t have a uterus (hysterectomy) but have your ovaries, are you in perimenopause or menopause or neither? We love your questions. If you are having any questions about hormones, perimenopause, and/or menopause, trust me, others have the same exact question. When going through perimenopause, menopause, or any hormonal imbalance, you are not alone. Your questions can help other listeners find answers to their concerns as well as realize that their symptoms of perimenopause and menopause are valid. If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.