ABSTRACT

The perimenopause consists of the years leading up to the natural cessation of menses. Symptoms commonly start in the woman’s forties, can be as early as her thirties and may last for several years.

Diagnosis

No true diagnosis can be made. Menopause itself is a retrospective diagnosis. If a woman goes for one year without bleeding, in the absence of hormonal therapy, she is considered to be menopausal.