· Hot flashes – These incidents of uncomfortable warmth appear during perimenopause and will vary in length, intensity and frequency. They may disturb sleeping patterns or cause night sweats in some women.
· Mood changes – Women may experience irritability, mood swings and increased depression during perimenopause, but some symptoms may be attributed to a lack of sleep caused by hot flashes and hormonal changes.
· Vaginal and bladder issues – As estrogen levels dip, vaginal tissues lose lubrication and some of their elasticity. This often results in painful intercourse, and lower estrogen levels may lead to vaginal infections or urinary tract issues, including urinary incontinence caused by lost elasticity.
· Decreased fertility – If ovulation changes, so, too, does the ability to conceive. While pregnancy is still possible while undergoing perimenopause, it will become more difficult.
· Changes in sexual function – Arousal and desire can be affected by perimenopausal issues.
· Bone loss – An increased risk of osteoporosis, which causes bone loss faster than replacement levels, is a risk of perimenopause. The afflicted may be more prone to broken bones.
· Cholesterol level changes – An increase in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and high-density lipoprotein (good) cholesterol can happen because of the changing estrogen levels. These changes can increase the risk of heart disease.