Let's firstly describe the process of menopause. There are usually three stages and the whole process can can last for between 10-15 years. Perimenopause signifies stage one and is accompanied by irregular periods. The second phase is described as the main menopausal stage. If a woman hasn't experienced periods for 12 months then she has entered the main menopausal phase and in most women, it's accompanied by the usual symptoms such as decreasing estrogen levels along with hot flashes and mood swings. Postmenopause is usually reached when the common symptons accompanying phase two decline however, complications are still around including the threat of osteoporosis but with regular visits to the doctor, most women will be well aware of this and will be well prepared.
Pregnancy During The Early Phase
Pregnancy is still possible during the perimenopause stage. Periods become irregular during this phase and in most cases, women will become a little blase regarding the use of contraception during sex. What perimenopausal women need to be aware of is that ovulation still occurs during this phase. The fact that periods are still present, though sporadically, should be a clear indication that they are not yet "out of the woods" regarding pregnancy. It's considered a pregnancy safe zone when a woman hasn't experienced a period for a minimum of 12 months during perimenopause.
It's common knowledge that the older a woman gets the less chance there is of pregnancy occurring and this is particularly so for women in their forties. Many doctors will encourage women to nevertheless, maintain safe sex practices during this period. Despite these messages, almost one in two women are still ignoring contraception during the perimenopausal stage. Further concern is that aborted pregnancies during this age group are extremely high.
So the clear message is that yes, menopause and pregnancy are very much co-existant. Irregular periods doesn't mean the end of the pregnancy phase. Remember, ovulation still occurs and by applying the standard 12 month period free rule, women can avoid unwanted pregnancies.
If You Become Pregnant?
Many women believe there aren't many options available to them if they fall pregnant. Basically, there aren't. Either go through with the pregnancy or follow the abortion trail. Menopause is enough of a difficult time to negotiate for women let alone having to make major decisions such as whether to continue on with a pregnancy. The body is at the first stage of undergoing major changes which are tough enough to cope with on their own but coupled with the demands brought on by a pregnancy, then the stress suddenly can escalate.
Again, the message should be clear; if you are not intending on having children, then be a little more prudent during the perimenopase stage.
