Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and perimenopause are two different but sometimes misunderstood hormonal problems that can have an impact on women’s health.
While some of their symptoms overlap, it is crucial to distinguish between the two in order to get an accurate diagnosis and the right care.
This article will explore the key differences between perimenopause and PCOS, helping women and healthcare providers better understand these conditions.
Perimenopause Vs PCOS
Definitions
A disorder called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) causes cysts to develop in a woman’s ovaries. it occurs when the female sex hormones progesterone and estrogen are out of balance,
The reduction in sex hormone levels, which starts years before actual menopause, causes a woman’s periods to stop completely. This period is referred to as perimenopause.
Differences between PCOS and perimenopause’s Symptoms
Both of these diseases have specific symptoms. PCOS has specific symptoms that are not associated with perimenopause, including:
- Acne and skin issues
- Headaches
- Pelvic pains
The following are specific perimenopause symptoms that are absent in PCOS:
- A hot flash
- Sweats at night
- Vaginal and urinary tract infections
- Bone deterioration
Hot flushes
A hot flush is a sudden occurrence of heat, sweating, and chills that may also include feelings of anxiety and flushing. Hot flushes are sometimes referred to as an “internal oven” that starts at the face, chest, or neck for some women.
Hot flushes commonly occur. If you have previously experienced night sweats during your reproductive years with PCOS, you might notice that hot flushes feel somewhat familiar, although slightly more uncomfortable.
Hot flushes are a direct reaction to changes in hormone levels. If your hot flushes are too severe and frequent, talk to your doctor about hormone therapy and other pain relief options.
| During perimenopause, close to 80% of women have hot flashes, which can last anywhere from one to five minutes and happen multiple times per day. |
What hormones lead to the occurrence of hot flashes?
Hormonal changes, notably a drop in estrogen levels, are the main cause of hot flashes, also known as hot flashes. The ovaries generate less estrogen throughout perimenopause and menopause, causing changes in hormone levels.
The body’s thermoregulatory system is impacted by these hormonal changes, which makes it more susceptible to temperature variations and causes hot flashes.
Changes Your Lifestyle to Ease Hot Flashes
To improve hot flashes, begin by making lifestyle changes before considering medication. If hot flashes disrupt your sleep, you can lower the bedroom temperature, and drink small amounts of cold water before bedtime Here are some other lifestyle modifications to consider:
- Wear clothing in layers that can be taken off when a hot flash starts.
- Carry a portable fan to use when a hot flash occurs.
- Avoid alcohol, spicy foods, and caffeine, as they can exacerbate menopausal symptoms.
- If you smoke, try to quit, not only to alleviate hot flashes but also for the sake of your overall health.
- Aim to maintain a healthy weight, as women who are overweight or obese may experience more frequent and severe hot flashes.
Other Health Risks in Perimenopause
1- Potential Elevated Risk of Diabetes
Women who experience menopause at the age of 46 face a 25% higher likelihood of developing Type 2 diabetes. Meanwhile, those reaching menopause at 55 have a 12% elevated risk.
| Taking a broader perspective, 39% of women with PCOS have Type 2 diabetes, compared to a 5.8% prevalence in the general population. Medical experts attribute this trend to obesity and high BMI. |
PCOS inherently increases the risk of diabetes due to insulin levels, with 65%-80% of PCOS patients experiencing insulin resistance. Naturally, this condition can also lead to heart disease later in life. Women going through perimenopause should regularly monitor their blood glucose levels and manage their sugar intake.
2- Potential Increased Cancer Risk
Breast, uterine, and endometrial cancer risk increases due to hormonal changes during perimenopause. Additionally, there is proof that PCOS can cause cancer, specifically endometrial cancer.
The most important risk factors for people in perimenopause are obesity, insulin resistance, and age. Women with PCOS have a 2.7 to four times increased risk of endometrial cancer.
You need to consult your doctor and keep an eye on your body’s changes. Your chances of catching dangerous cancers early and receiving the right care increase if you go for annual checkups.
3- Osteoporosis Occurs in Perimenopausal Phases
Hormonal changes that occur during perimenopause can also cause bone loss, which raises the chance of developing osteoporosis. Fragile bones and a higher incidence of fractures are two effects of decreased bone density.
Ingesting enough calcium and vitamin D, along with weight-bearing workouts, can help maintain bone health.
4- Heart Disease Risk
Women who are perimenopausal or postmenopausal are more likely to develop heart disease. Reduced estrogen levels have been linked to negative effects on blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood vessel health. To reduce this risk, it’s essential to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle, which includes frequent exercise and a balanced diet.
Conclusion
PCOS and perimenopause are two distinct conditions with differing effects on women’s health. While PCOS is a hormonal condition with long-term effects, perimenopause is a normal age-related shift.
Understanding these distinctions is essential for an accurate diagnosis and an individualized plan of treatment to ensure general health and well-being.
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FAQs
Can hot flashes cause infertility?
Even if you experience hot flashes and irregular periods, you still have a chance to become pregnant. However, it does imply that you are probably much less fertile than you formerly were. A full year without a period is required before you can say you’ve achieved menopause.
Which supplements can reduce hot flashes?
Vitamin E supplements may help to reduce the frequency of moderate hot flashes. It may make you more likely to bleed if you take it in big dosages.
Sources
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/facts-about-aging-and-alcohol