Question: I take hormonal contraceptives; how can I tell if I'm perimenopausal?
Answer: This is a really great question. Natural periods can help indicate whether you are in the early, middle or late stages or perimenopause. However, if you're on the combined pill, you might have breakout bleeds rather than periods. And if you're on the Mirena coil, or you take progesterone only pill, you may bleed irregularly or not at all. So, your cycle can't really tell you that much about perimenopause.
Your doctor can test your FHS levels, but unfortunately, because your hormone levels are so erratic, it may not be indicative or very accurate depending on how your hormone levels are rising or falling on the day of the test.
Keep a look for symptoms that you know are associated with perimenopause such as fatigue, trouble sleeping, changes in mood, anxiety, heart palpitations, weight gain, and of course, hot flushes and night sweats. It’s a good idea to track them by keeping a symptom diary.
However, be aware that a combined pill may mask your symptoms like hot flushes and a progesterone-only contraceptive has the potential to amplify symptoms like hot flushes quite early on.
For perimenopause symptoms
Looking for a way to support yourself more during perimenopause? Try a perimenopause supplement such as Balance Perimenopause Multi-nutrient drink, which can help support you in 10 different ways during perimenopause.
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You may also find these articles helpful:
Signs you're in the late stages of perimenopause
10 things you need to know about perimenopause
10 self-care tips for perimenopause, menopause & post-menopause
