It's almost time for your annual trip to the gynecologist and you're getting ready! Before you show up at the office, think about what questions you need to ask. Really, truly think about it. Don't just go with what seems obvious or what your BFF says that she asked. An annual exam is an essential part of identifying potential problems, maintaining a doctor-patient relationship, reviewing your risk factors and keeping you healthy, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
Just because you aren't quite at the age to be going through menopause, doesn't mean you won't have symptoms. Perimenopause is the phase shortly before menopause, where you near the end of your last menstrual cycle. Here are some early signs of perimenopause to be on the lookout for.
1. Menstrual Cycle Changes
Before you have your final menstrual period, you might notice your cycles gradually change. You could have a different blood flow than you did previously, or you may have a longer or shorter menstrual cycle.
If you find yourself suffering from vaginal dryness due to menopause, you may want to try using natural methods to replace moisture. Vaginal dryness often occurs when the vagina begins to lose its natural moisture as well as its elasticity. This is common during menopause because this is usually the time when the hormone estrogen which is responsible for lubricating the vagina becomes reduced. The result is vaginal dryness. Here are some natural methods you can try to increase vaginal moisture.
