Published on: 6/12/2025
How does perimenopause affect irregular periods in women with PCOS?
Perimenopause can make periods more irregular for women with PCOS, as hormone changes cause cycles to become less predictable.
Explanation
During perimenopause, women experience changes in their menstrual cycles due to shifts in hormone levels. This transition phase can lead to irregular periods, which is also a common symptom for women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
Hormonal Changes
- Perimenopause: According to the literature, hormone fluctuations during perimenopause can cause cycles to become erratic. This is because the body's production of estrogen fluctuates and progesterone starts to decline.
- PCOS: Women with PCOS often have irregular periods due to hormonal imbalances. During perimenopause, these imbalances can be exacerbated, leading to further irregularity.
Effects on Menstrual Cycle
- Increased Irregularity: With both PCOS and perimenopause affecting hormone levels, women may notice their periods become even more unpredictable.
- Bleeding Patterns: Some women may experience heavier or lighter bleeding, as described in the literature on perimenopausal abnormal uterine bleeding.
Understanding these changes can help women with PCOS anticipate and manage their symptoms during perimenopause more effectively.
(References)
- Van Voorhis BJ. (2005). Genitourinary symptoms in the menopausal transition. The American journal of medicine, 16414326.
- Burger HG, Hale GE, Dennerstein L, & Robertson DM. (2008). Cycle and hormone changes during perimenopause. Menopause (New York, N.Y.), 18574431.
- Dreisler E, Frandsen CS, & Ulrich L. (2024). Perimenopausal abnormal uterine bleeding. Maturitas, 38412750.
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