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Perimenopause

HRT Versus Birth Control for Perimenopause: Which is Right for You?

Clara Siegmund
Clara Siegmund

Finding relief from perimenopause symptoms is possible, and you can do it, too. Here’s your go-to guide to HRT and birth control for perimenopause, to help you choose between these two common treatment options.

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Finding relief from perimenopause symptoms is possible, and you can do it, too. Here’s your go-to guide to HRT and birth control for perimenopause, to help you choose between these two common treatment options.

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Finding relief from perimenopause symptoms is possible, and you can do it, too. Here’s your go-to guide to HRT and birth control for perimenopause, to help you choose between these two common treatment options.

Perimenopause can be painful and distressing, there’s no denying that. Millions of women are plagued by physical and emotional symptoms, like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, sleep disturbances, and more. 

But you don’t have to suffer in silence. Treatments like hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and certain birth control methods offer relief from symptoms, so you can ease your transition into menopause.

Let’s take a look at HRT and birth control for perimenopause, to help you decide which treatment could be right for you. 

‍

Why do I have perimenopause symptoms?

Perimenopause is driven by major changes in your body’s production of key reproductive hormones. Estrogen and progesterone levels, for example, decline over time. 

But hormones don’t change steadily: instead, levels fluctuate unpredictably, knocking your hormones out of balance with one another. This can cause a variety of symptoms.

Common perimenopause symptoms include:

  • Irregular periods
  • Hot flashes (vasomotor symptoms)
  • Mood changes
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Vaginal dryness

Luckily, perimenopause treatments can help you manage symptoms as you move through the menopausal transition. 

Does hormone replacement therapy help with perimenopause symptoms?

Yes, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can offer relief from perimenopause symptoms. HRT is sometimes also called menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) or hormone therapy (HT).

HRT medication replicates estrogen and progesterone, treating perimenopause symptoms by adding these hormones back into your system. This supplements your body’s hormone production, stabilizes declining levels, and eases fluctuations, helping you manage symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, and vaginal symptoms [1].

What are the types of HRT for perimenopause?

There are two main types of HRT:

  • Estrogen-only therapy: Contains estrogen only, and can be used by those who’ve had their uterus removed (a hysterectomy).
  • Combined therapy: Contains estrogen and progestogen (a type of synthetic progesterone), and can be used by those who still have a uterus.

Both estrogen-only HRT and combined HRT are available in these forms:

  • Pill
  • Patch
  • Gel
  • Spray
  • Injection

Gels, sprays, and injections generally only administer estrogen. If you use one of these methods for combined HRT, your treatment will also include a progestogen pill or progestogen intrauterine device (IUD).

These five HRT methods are all “systemic,” meaning they release hormones into your bloodstream. Other forms of HRT are “nonsystemic,” meaning hormones don’t enter your bloodstream.

Vaginal estrogen HRT, for example, releases estrogen locally into the vagina only, using a tablet, cream, gel, or ring inserted into the vagina. Vaginal estrogen HRT doesn’t need to be supplemented with progestogen [2].

What is bioidentical HRT?

Bioidentical HRT, sometimes also called regulated body-identical hormone therapy (rBHT), is another type of hormone therapy. 

Bioidentical HRT works like conventional HRT, except it uses hormones derived from plants whereas conventional HRT uses animal-derived hormones (although both types share certain hormones, too) [3,4]. Both are safe perimenopause treatments.

But watch out: compounded bioidentical HRT is different. This product isn’t FDA-approved or FDA-regulated, meaning it isn’t safe [5].

Who can use HRT for perimenopause?

HRT may be the right treatment for your perimenopause symptoms if you meet the following conditions:

  • You’re 59 or younger
  • You started perimenopause less than ten years ago
  • You aren’t at high risk of breast cancer, blood clots, or stroke

If you’re treating vaginal symptoms only, health experts recommend trying vaginal estrogen HRT before combined HRT [6].

Does the pill help with perimenopause symptoms?

Yes, certain hormonal birth control methods can also treat perimenopause symptoms. 

What birth control methods can you use for perimenopause?

The combined oral contraceptive pill (commonly called the pill) and the hormonal IUD can both help with perimenopause.

These hormonal contraceptives treat perimenopause symptoms by releasing hormones into your body to regulate hormone levels – similar to the way HRT works. These methods help you manage symptoms like cycle irregularity, premenstrual pain, and hot flashes [7].

A perimenopause prescription for the pill likely won’t include the typical week of placebo pills, as temporarily stopping medication during the no-pill week can make symptoms come back [8]. An IUD automatically provides a steady stream of hormones.

Who can use the pill for perimenopause?

Hormonal contraceptives may be right for managing your perimenopause symptoms if:

  • You want to avoid pregnancy
  • You’re younger than 50 (some doctors recommend switching to HRT after 50) [9]
  • You aren’t at high risk of diabetes or heart disease
  • You have normal blood pressure

Can you combine the pill and HRT?

No, you can’t take the pill and HRT at the same time. However, taking HRT alongside the progestogen-only pill (commonly called the mini pill) is usually possible [9]. Using an IUD while taking HRT is also possible. In fact, many people use an IUD as part of combined HRT.

Benefits and risks of HRT or the pill for perimenopause

To help you decide which perimenopause treatment is right for you, let’s take a look at their benefits and risks.

What are the benefits of HRT for perimenopause?

HRT can help you treat perimenopause symptoms like [1]:

  • Hot flashes
  • Night sweats
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Mood symptoms
  • Vaginal symptoms, including dryness, irritation, and pain during sex (dyspareunia)

HRT also helps prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures [1]. This is good news, since bone loss speeds up significantly during perimenopause [10]. Plus, HRT may help lower the risk of heart disease and diabetes [11].

What are the risks of HRT for perimenopause?

HRT is a safe and effective perimenopause treatment, but like any medication, it comes with risks. Overall risk is low. Risks include:

  • Stroke
  • Blood clots
  • Breast cancer

Vaginal estrogen HRT doesn’t increase the risk of these conditions. Estrogen-only patches, gels, sprays, and low-dose pills may have a lower risk of blood clots and stroke [1].

What are the benefits of the pill for perimenopause?

The pill and hormonal IUD can help you manage perimenopause symptoms like [7]:

  • Irregular periods
  • Heavy periods
  • Premenstrual symptoms, including headaches and period pain
  • Hot flashes
  • Night sweats

The pill may also help lower the risk of certain types of cancer, including ovarian, endometrial, and colorectal cancer [7].

Pregnancy is another key consideration. Contrary to popular belief, getting pregnant during perimenopause is possible. Hormonal contraceptives both protect against pregnancy and provide perimenopause symptom relief, perfect for those who want to avoid conceiving.

‍

What are the risks of the pill for perimenopause?

The pill also comes with risks. Risks are low, and include:

  • Breast cancer
  • Blood clots
  • Heart attack

Compared to the pill, IUDs have a lower risk of blood clots and may have fewer side effects. The risk of breast cancer may also be lower, but more research is needed [12].

How to choose between HRT or the pill for perimenopause

The right perimenopause treatment for you depends on your medical history and your symptoms. Your doctor can help you determine which treatment is safest and likely to be most helpful for your unique needs. 

Your treatment goals may also help you choose between HRT or the pill for perimenopause. For example:

  • Do you have unbearable hot flashes? Consider HRT, the most effective treatment for hot flashes [1].
  • Do you have painful and distressing vaginal symptoms, like dryness and irritation? Try vaginal estrogen HRT.
  • Do you want to avoid pregnancy while managing perimenopause symptoms? Use a hormonal contraceptive.

Outside of medical treatments, lifestyle strategies may help with perimenopause, too. Aim to eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, reduce stress, and keep a regular sleep schedule. Acupuncture may also offer relief.

‍

HRT vs Birth Control for Perimenopause: The bottom line

HRT and birth control are two great options for finding relief from perimenopause symptoms. Both treatments help regulate your hormones, stabilizing fluctuations to manage perimenopause.

Talk to your doctor about whether HRT or the pill for perimenopause could be right for you. With support, you can transform your perimenopause journey from a bumpy ride into a smooth sail.

About the author

Clara Siegmund
Clara Siegmund is a writer, editor, and translator (French to English) from Brooklyn, New York. She has a BA in English and French Studies from Wesleyan University and an MA in Translation from the Sorbonne. She is passionate about literature, reproductive justice, and using language to make information accessible.‍

Sources

  1. North American Menopause Society. (2022). The 2022 hormone therapy position statement of The North American Menopause Society. 
  2. NHS. (2023). About vaginal oestrogen.
  3. Harper-Harrison G, et al. (2024). Hormone Replacement Therapy.  
  4. Stancyzk FC, et al. (2021). Bioidentical hormones.
  5. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2023). Compounded Bioidentical Menopausal Hormone Therapy.
  6. Tomczyk K, et al. (2023). New Possibilities for Hormonal Vaginal Treatment in Menopausal Women.
  7. Cho MK. (2018). Use of Combined Oral Contraceptives in Perimenopausal Women. 
  8. Santoro N. (2016). Perimenopause: From Research to Practice.
  9. NHS. (2023). When to take hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
  10. Endocrine Society. (2022). Menopause and Bone Loss.
  11. The Menopause Society. (n.d.). Menopause Topics: Hormone Therapy. 
  12. Joo JK, et al. (2021). Levonorgestrel-Releasing Intrauterine System Use in Perimenopausal Women.

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perimenopause-periods
Should I still see my gynecologist if my periods are just "weird" but not painful?
Yes. Annual visits remain important during perimenopause. Your provider can help determine if your "weird" periods are typical perimenopause changes or something requiring attention. They can also discuss management options to improve your quality of life.
perimenopause-periods
How long do irregular periods last before menopause?
Irregular perimenopause periods typically last 4 to 8 years before your final period, though this varies greatly. Some women experience irregularity for just a few months, while others have irregular periods for over a decade before reaching menopause.
perimenopause-periods
Is it normal to have two periods in one month during perimenopause?
Yes, this can happen, especially in early perimenopause when cycles shorten. You might have a 21 day cycle, meaning you could have a period at the beginning and end of the same calendar month. Track these patterns to distinguish between short cycles and abnormal bleeding.
perimenopause-periods
Why are my periods suddenly so heavy in my 40s?
Heavy perimenopause periods often result from estrogen dominance. When progesterone drops but estrogen remains high, your uterine lining builds up more than usual, causing heavier bleeding when it sheds. This is common in perimenopause but should be evaluated if it affects your daily life.
perimenopause-periods
Can I still get pregnant if my periods are irregular during perimenopause?
Yes. As long as you're having periods, even irregular ones, you may still be ovulating. Pregnancy is possible until you've gone 12 full months without any period. If you don't want to become pregnant, continue using contraception throughout perimenopause.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Can you prevent perimenopause weight gain completely?
While you may not prevent all weight changes during perimenopause, you can minimize gain through proactive strategies. Starting strength training before perimenopause, maintaining consistent sleep habits, and managing stress can help your body adapt to hormonal changes more smoothly. Remember, some body changes during this transition are normal and healthy.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
At what age does perimenopause weight gain typically start?
Perimenopause weight gain can begin in your late 30s or early 40s, often coinciding with the first hormonal changes. Many women notice gradual changes starting 5 to 10 years before their final period. The timing varies greatly based on genetics, lifestyle, and overall health.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Does everyone gain the same amount during perimenopause?
No. Perimenopause weight gain varies significantly. Some women gain 5 pounds, others 20 or more, and some maintain their weight. Factors include genetics, starting weight, activity level, stress, sleep quality, and how dramatically hormones fluctuate. Your experience is unique to your body.
Is perimenopause weight gain different from regular aging weight gain?
Yes. While metabolism naturally slows with age, perimenopause weight gain has distinct characteristics. The hormonal shifts cause fat redistribution to the midsection, even if overall weight doesn't change dramatically. This abdominal weight gain pattern is specifically linked to declining estrogen and progesterone, not just aging.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Will the weight come off after menopause?
Perimenopause weight gain often stabilizes after menopause when hormones level out, but the weight doesn't automatically disappear. The metabolic and body composition changes that occur during perimenopause tend to persist. However, with consistent healthy habits, weight management becomes more predictable post menopause than during the fluctuating perimenopause years.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I take progesterone if I'm breastfeeding?
Yes, progesterone is generally safe while breastfeeding and doesn't significantly affect milk supply. However, always discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any hormone supplementation while nursing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Is it safe to take progesterone throughout pregnancy?
Yes, when prescribed by your healthcare provider. Progesterone supplementation in early pregnancy is safe and can reduce miscarriage risk in women with low progesterone or a history of pregnancy loss. Most providers continue supplementation through the first trimester (weeks 10-12) when the placenta takes over.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can progesterone supplementation cause weight gain?
Progesterone can cause temporary water retention and bloating, which may show up as a few pounds on the scale, but it doesn't cause true fat weight gain. Most women don't experience significant weight changes from progesterone supplementation.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I switch from pills to suppositories or vice versa?
Yes, but only under your doctor's guidance. The dosing and timing may need adjustment when switching between forms since they're absorbed differently. Never switch on your own, especially if you're pregnant or undergoing fertility treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Will progesterone supplementation delay my period?
Yes, progesterone keeps the uterine lining intact, so if you're not pregnant and continue taking progesterone, your period will be delayed. Once you stop taking it, your period should start within 2-10 days. If you are pregnant, progesterone helps maintain the pregnancy and you won't get a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Should I take progesterone pills orally or vaginally?
For fertility and pregnancy support, vaginal progesterone is usually preferred because it delivers higher concentrations directly to the uterus. For perimenopause or general hormone balance, oral progesterone often works well and is more convenient. Your doctor will recommend the best route based on your specific needs.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
When should I start taking progesterone after ovulation?
Typically, progesterone supplementation for luteal phase support starts 2-3 days after ovulation (confirmed by LH surge or temperature rise). Your doctor will give you specific timing based on your protocol. Some women start immediately after a positive ovulation test.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
What's better: progesterone cream or pills?
Pills (oral micronized progesterone) are generally more effective and reliable than creams because absorption from creams is inconsistent. For medical conditions like fertility issues, low progesterone, or HRT, prescription pills or suppositories are strongly recommended over over-the-counter creams.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
How can I tell if I have low or high progesterone?
The only definitive way to know is through hormone testing via blood tests or at-home urine tests that measure progesterone metabolites. However, symptom patterns can provide clues: anxiety and irregular periods suggest low progesterone, while bloating and extreme fatigue suggest high progesterone.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
When during my cycle should I test progesterone levels?
Test progesterone levels during the luteal phase, typically 7 days after ovulation or around day 21 of a 28-day cycle. This is when progesterone should be at its peak, making it easier to identify if levels are too low or too high.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the main differences between low and high progesterone symptoms?
Low progesterone typically causes irregular or heavy periods, anxiety, hot flashes, and sleep issues. High progesterone causes bloating, fatigue, intense breast tenderness, and depression-like mood changes. Low progesterone symptoms persist throughout your cycle, while high progesterone symptoms are most intense during the luteal phase.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
Can you have symptoms of both low and high progesterone?
Some symptoms like breast tenderness and mood changes can occur with both low and high progesterone, making it confusing. However, the timing, intensity, and accompanying symptoms differ. Hormone testing is the best way to determine which imbalance you're experiencing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can stress affect 10 DPO symptoms?
Yes, stress can worsen or mimic 10 DPO symptoms. Stress increases cortisol, which can cause cramping, fatigue, and mood changes similar to both PMS and early pregnancy. During the two-week wait, try stress-reduction techniques like gentle exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is it better to test at 10 DPO or wait?
It's better to wait until 12–14 DPO for more accurate results. Testing at 10 DPO often leads to false negatives because hCG levels may still be too low. If you absolutely can't wait, use a sensitive early detection test with first morning urine, and be prepared to retest in 2–3 days if negative.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does implantation bleeding look like at 10 DPO?
Implantation bleeding at 10 DPO is typically light pink or brown, much lighter than a period, and lasts 1–2 days. It's often just spotting when you wipe or a few drops on a panty liner. However, only 15–20% of pregnant women experience implantation bleeding—most don't have any bleeding at all.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Why am I cramping at 10 DPO?
Cramping at 10 DPO can be caused by elevated progesterone (whether you're pregnant or not), implantation (if you're pregnant), or premenstrual cramping. Unfortunately, cramping alone can't tell you if you're pregnant since progesterone causes similar symptoms in both scenarios.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What are the chances of a BFP at 10 DPO?
If you're pregnant, you have about a 50–60% chance of getting a positive test at 10 DPO. This means there's a 40–50% chance of a false negative even if you conceived. Chances improve significantly by 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What DPO is most accurate for pregnancy testing?
14 DPO (the day of your missed period) is the most accurate time to test, with 99% accuracy. 12 DPO offers 80–90% accuracy. 10 DPO has only 50–60% accuracy. For best results, wait as long as you can—ideally until 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is 10 DPO too early to test?
10 DPO is considered early for pregnancy testing. While some women get positives at 10 DPO, accuracy is only 50–60% if you're pregnant. For best results, wait until 12 DPO (80–90% accuracy) or 14 DPO/missed period (99% accuracy).
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you have implantation at 10 DPO?
Yes, implantation can still occur at 10 DPO, though 84% of women have already implanted by this point. Late implantation at 10–12 DPO is normal. If implantation happens at 10 DPO, you won't get a positive pregnancy test for another 2–3 days.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does a negative test at 10 DPO mean?
A negative test at 10 DPO does not mean you're not pregnant. It's very common to get negatives at 10 DPO even if you conceived. Your hCG levels may still be too low, or implantation may have occurred later. Wait until 12–14 DPO to retest for more accurate results.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you get a positive pregnancy test at 10 DPO?
Yes, but only about 50–60% of pregnant women will get a positive at 10 DPO. The other 40–50% have hCG levels that are still too low to detect. If you test negative at 10 DPO, wait 2–3 days and test again.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Can high progesterone cause weight gain?
Yes, elevated progesterone can cause temporary weight gain through water retention and bloating. This is a normal part of the luteal phase and early pregnancy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Does stress affect estrogen levels?
Yes, chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can suppress estrogen production and disrupt hormonal balance. Stress reduction through meditation, yoga, adequate sleep, and self-care practices helps maintain optimal estrogen levels.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
When should I consider medical treatment for low estrogen?
Consider medical intervention if natural methods don't improve symptoms after 3 months, if symptoms severely impact quality of life, if you're experiencing early menopause (before 40), or if you have fertility concerns. Hormone replacement therapy may be appropriate in these cases.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What are the signs that my estrogen is increasing?
Signs of rising estrogen include more regular menstrual cycles, reduced hot flashes, improved vaginal lubrication, better mood stability, increased energy, and improved skin elasticity. You may also notice reduced symptoms that originally indicated low estrogen.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Can exercise increase estrogen levels?
Yes, moderate exercise stimulates estrogen release and helps maintain hormonal balance. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate cardio weekly plus strength training twice per week. However, excessive exercise can actually lower estrogen, so balance is key.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
How long does it take to increase estrogen naturally?
With consistent dietary and lifestyle changes, you may notice improvements in symptoms within 4-8 weeks. However, significant hormonal changes typically take 2-3 months. Tracking your cycle and symptoms can help you monitor progress.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What foods increase estrogen levels naturally?
Foods high in phytoestrogens can help increase estrogen naturally. The best options include flax seeds (high in lignans), soy products (tofu, tempeh, edamame), lentils, chickpeas, whole grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice), and garlic. These plant compounds mimic estrogen's effects in the body.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What helps relieve hot flashes quickly?
Cool environments, layered clothing, herbal teas, and medical treatments like gabapentin or HRT may help—depending on severity. Lifestyle changes like reducing caffeine and alcohol can also provide relief.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Are there tests to confirm perimenopause?
Yes. Tests measuring estradiol, LH, and FSH levels can indicate hormonal shifts—but diagnosis is often symptom-based since hormone levels fluctuate widely during perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
How do I know it's perimenopause and not something else?
A doctor may recommend hormone testing (like LH, E3G, and PdG) and track symptom timing. Diagnosis is often based on symptoms combined with age and menstrual pattern changes.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What's the earliest age perimenopause can start?
Some women begin experiencing symptoms as early as their mid-30s, though perimenopause typically starts between ages 38-45.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Does perimenopause affect mental clarity?
Yes. Brain fog and difficulty concentrating are common during hormone fluctuations in perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What happens after the last sign of perimenopause?
After your final period, you enter postmenopause. You'll need 12 consecutive months without a period to confirm menopause. Many symptoms gradually improve, though some like vaginal dryness may persist without treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
When do perimenopause symptoms finally stop?
Some symptoms like brain fog improve after menopause, while others like hot flashes may continue for up to 10 years post-menopause. Vaginal symptoms often persist or worsen without treatment. Each person's timeline is different.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Is high progesterone a sign of pregnancy?
Yes, high progesterone is one of the earliest indicators of pregnancy. Progesterone levels rise significantly after conception to support the developing embryo and reach their peak during the third trimester.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Can you still get pregnant in late perimenopause?
Yes, you can still get pregnant during perimenopause as long as you're having periods, even if they're infrequent. Continue using birth control until you've gone 12 consecutive months without a period and have officially reached menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Do symptoms get worse before perimenopause ends?
Yes, most perimenopause symptoms intensify in the final 1-2 years before menopause. Hot flashes peak around your final period, vaginal symptoms worsen, and mood changes increase. However, brain fog typically improves in late perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
How long does late perimenopause last?
Late perimenopause typically lasts 1-3 years before your final period. However, the exact duration varies significantly from person to person. You've reached menopause after 12 consecutive months without a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the symptoms of high progesterone?
High progesterone symptoms include fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, weight gain, anxiety, depression, headaches, and food cravings. During pregnancy, you may also experience increased nipple sensitivity and muscle aches.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What are the first signs that perimenopause is ending?
The earliest signs include longer gaps between periods (60+ days), intensifying hot flashes that peak around your final period, and worsening vaginal dryness. These symptoms typically increase in late perimenopause before you reach official menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
When should I be concerned about high progesterone?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience high progesterone symptoms outside your luteal phase when not pregnant, or if symptoms include severe pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or rapid weight gain while on hormone therapy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
How do you test progesterone levels?
Progesterone can be measured through blood tests at your doctor's office or at-home urine tests that measure PdG (a progesterone metabolite). Testing is typically done during the luteal phase, about 7 days after ovulation.

About the Oova Blog:
‍Our content is developed with a commitment to high editorial standards and reliability. We prioritize referencing reputable sources and sharing where our insights come from. The Oova Blog is intended for informational purposes only and is never a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making any health decisions.

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