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Many women believe that when they begin to experience the dreaded hot flashes, irregular periods, and mood swings, their biological clock has stopped ticking. But these symptoms can be present before a woman reaches the time when she is no longer able to conceive (become pregnant). A woman can experience these, and other menopause symptoms intermittently before being in menopause – during a stage caused perimenopause – and during this time she may also face an unplanned pregnancy and an increased need for STI testing. Read on.
A woman is believed to be in menopause when she has not had a period for a year, which means 12 consecutive months without having a period.
Perimenopause happens before menopause. A woman can begin perimenopause as early as her late 30s or as late as her mid 50s. According to Womenshealth.gov, perimenopause can last for as little as 2 years or as long as 8 years.
During perimenopause, there is a decline in hormones that can cause a variety of menopause-like symptoms. One of those symptoms is irregular periods. As your hormone levels fluctuate, so will your periods. But ovulation will still occur. You may not ovulate every month so it will be harder to predict your ovulation cycle.
Your biological clock may have slowed down, but it is in fact still ticking, which can lead to a pregnancy that didn’t seem possible.
If you are in perimenopause and concerned that you’re too old to parent, here are some things to think about:
According to Psychology Today,
“Starting your family, or adding to it, when you’re in your 30s, 40s, or even older can have many advantages for both the parents and the child.”
Some advantages of having a baby in your 30s or 40s are that you are likely to:
AND
If you suspect that you may be pregnant, let us be your first call. Here at Alcove Health Women’s Clinic, we provide:
Don’t let the stress or shock of facing an unplanned pregnancy keep you from getting the services you need to protect your health! Our private clinic is the perfect place to understand your options, get your questions answered, and receive the medical services you need.
And guess who also provides free limited STI screenings for gonorrhea, trich, and chlamydia? That’s right – we do.
You may be thinking you don’t need it. It’s important to remember that even if you’re already officially in menopause and cannot get pregnant, you can still get an STI or STD. If you are having sex, you are at risk of getting an STI. It’s just that simple.
In fact, Womenshealth.gov warns that:
“Vaginal dryness or irritation is more common after menopause and can cause small cuts or tears during sex, which leads to increased exposure to STIs.”
At every stage of life, Alcove Health is here for you!
Whether you’re concerned about an unplanned pregnancy or an unexpected STI, Alcove Health Women’s Clinic is a safe place for you to process your pregnancy, understand your options and protect your health. All our services are free, too!
Call or visit our appointment page to request your free and confidential appointment today.
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