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The perimenopausal period, or menopausal transition, is the time leading up to menopause itself, which can last up to ten years. This phase begins with the first symptoms and ends one year after the last menstruation. Hormone levels gradually decline while fluctuating dramatically, causing physical and emotional symptoms. Medicine offers ways to alleviate these symptoms, but when they appear as early as the 30s, women often silently endure them for years before seeking help. A recent study by scientists from the University of Virginia, USA, revealed a “worrying gap” in current understanding of perimenopause.
Global Statistics
According to the United Nations (UN), in 2011, women aged 50 and older represented 22% of all women worldwide. By 2021, this figure increased to 26%. In 2020, 985 million women globally were aged 50+. The UN predicts that by 2050, this number will rise to 1.65 billion.
With the growing number of women going through perimenopause, the need for research and medical support becomes even more urgent. Raising awareness about available methods to ease symptoms during this period has both social and economic benefits. In fact, estimates suggest the global market for menopause-related products and services was valued at $16.93 billion in 2023, and will reach $22.7 billion by 2028.
Early Onset of Perimenopause Symptoms
Researchers analyzed survey results from more than 4,400 American women aged 30 and older and found surprising results. Among women aged 30-35, 55.4% reported symptoms that met the criteria for “moderate” or “severe” on the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS). This figure increased to 64.3% among women aged 36-40.
At the same time, most women did not recognize that these symptoms were part of perimenopause and sought help only after the age of 56. They assumed they were too young to experience symptoms, thinking these would not appear until after the age of 50. Researchers argue that this misconception only leads women to silently suffer.
Physical and emotional symptoms associated with perimenopause are understudied and often dismissed by physicians. This research is important in order to more fully understand how common these symptoms are, their impact on women and to raise awareness amongst physicians as well as the general public.
Jennifer Payne, MD, study co-author, expert in reproductive psychiatry at UVA Health and the University of Virginia School of Medicine
Psychological and Physical Impact of Perimenopause
The study also revealed that psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and irritability, appear long before physical symptoms. These emotional changes peaked in women aged 41-45 and began to decrease by age 56.
Meanwhile, physical symptoms like vaginal dryness, sexual function issues, and urinary problems were most pronounced in women aged 51 and older. Similarly, sweating and hot flashes peaked between the ages of 51 and 55 and were lowest in women aged 30-35.
No link was found between early symptoms and early menopause onset.
Closing the Knowledge Gap
The results of this study aim to fill a critical gap in the understanding of perimenopause. Focusing on symptoms, rather than age, will help women recognize when to seek medical advice. The earlier treatment begins, the more effective it will be. This means a higher quality of life during perimenopause for millions of women.
According to gynecologist-endocrinologist and chief physician at the “Lior” Medical Center, Natalia Silina, early treatment, including hormone replacement therapy, is crucial for the course of the menopausal transition. Therefore, don’t delay. For more details and to schedule an appointment, you can call +380 73 200 6198 or reach us via Telegram.
We’ve gathered complete information on this important stage in a woman’s life in our Menopause Guide.
