Perimenopause

[SH23000]

I am 41, and I noticed that my menstruation began to skip a month and then happen the month after. Although I have not experienced hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, or any problems with osteoporosis, or facial hair it has become painful for me to accept that I will never be able to have childrenif in menopause. I recently went for a gynecology visit and was told that my hormone levels or at least one of them was high; probably the estrogen-and as a result this"menopause" may be of occurence. I am often put under a lot of stress and when I exercise I did notice that my menstruation did not come when it should have.  My question to anyone who can answer this is:1- What can I do to increase the progesterone levels in my body? 2-Am I too old to experience secondary amenorrhea? 3-Could this be related to thyroid disease either, Cushings as in hypothyroidism or hyperprolactinemia? I will probably seek another gyn as to find one of proficience in assisting me with a more healthier hormonal balance, and to find the cause in lapse of menstruation.

[AnnieBrooke]

Exercise can reduce your body fat to the point where your periods stop.  If you have a lot less than normal body fat, this could be the answer.  I would indeed talk to another gyno, as you are a little young for menopause (median age in the U.S. for menopause is 51; most women don't start perimenopause until at least 46).  Even if you do go through menopause, you can take hormones (progesterone is one you can even take vaginally) to create a uterine lining that supports pregnancy, but there is also the issue of the eggs.  You would need to work with a good fertility specialist not just a gynecologist.  I would not delay trying at 41.  Good luck.