In order to be classed as menopausal your periods need to have stopped for at least twelve months consecutively, which means that you are then infertile. However, the perimenopause, which is the period leading up to the menopause, is a time when many women continue to have a period regularly, and this means that they are at risk of becoming pregnant. Although the chances of becoming pregnant naturally are reduced by fifty percent at the age of forty, and continue to decline with age, pregnancy during these menopausal years is still possible.
Pregnancy during the perimenopausal years
Many women aged between forty five and fifty assume that they are not going to get pregnant, and some believe that the irregular periods that they experience are a sign that they can no longer have a child. However, the very fact that periods are occurring during the run up to the menopause means that eggs are being produced and can be fertilized, and although the chances of getting pregnant are lower during these years there is still a possibility that it could happen, and therefore precautions need to be taken.
During the perimenopausal years periods can be irregular, and this can cause a problem for those not using proper contraception. If you do get caught out and become pregnant, you may put the missed periods down to the fact that they were irregular anyway. This is especially true if you’re under the assumption that you cannot get pregnant. However, the reasons for your missed periods may not be anything to do with standard irregularity. It may well be due to pregnancy, which can really come as a shock.
There are a number of contraception options open to those going through the perimenopausal period that will reduce the risks of pregnancy. Of course your chances of becoming pregnant during your twenties and thirties are far higher than in your forties and fifties, but there is still the possibility that it could happen, which means that contraception in some form or another is important.
Oral contraception is a very popular method, and your doctor will be able to recommend a suitable contraceptive pill for your age. These can often reduce the symptoms associated with menopause as well, there are double benefits. Other contraception options for perimenopausal women include sterilization, vasectomy for the partner, or barrier contraception such as condoms and cervical caps.
Anyone that is going through the menopause and is unsure of the best form of contraception for them should speak to their doctor about the available options. Based on your age, health, and medical history, your doctor will be able to offer expert advice on the type of contraception that would best suit your needs.