Can you get pregnant in perimenopause?
Yes, you can get pregnant during perimenopause, though fertility generally declines as you approach this stage. Perimenopause, the transitional phase before menopause, involves irregular menstrual cycles and fluctuating hormone levels. This period can last several years, often beginning in a woman’s 40s, but it can start earlier.
Even though ovulation becomes irregular and less frequent during perimenopause, it is still possible. If you are having unprotected sex, there is still a chance of conceiving. The likelihood of pregnancy decreases compared to earlier in life due to reduced egg quality and quantity, but conception can still occur.
To better understand your fertility status during perimenopause, FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) testing can be useful. Diagnox’s menopause test kit, which includes FSH testing, can help determine where you are in the perimenopausal transition. Elevated FSH levels are often an indicator that your ovaries are producing fewer eggs and that you are approaching menopause. This test can provide insights into your hormonal changes and help you manage your fertility more effectively.
If you are trying to avoid pregnancy, continue using contraception until you have reached menopause, defined as 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. Relying on natural family planning methods alone may not be reliable due to the unpredictability of ovulation during perimenopause.
For those trying to conceive during perimenopause, consulting a healthcare provider or fertility specialist is advisable. They can offer guidance on fertility treatments and potential options, including assisted reproductive technologies or hormone therapies, to improve the chances of pregnancy.
Overall, while fertility decreases during perimenopause, understanding your hormonal status with tools like Diagnox’s menopause test kit can help you make informed decisions about pregnancy and reproductive health.
To learn more about pregnancy in perimenopause, check out this blog.
