List the clinical signs and describe the clinical implications of perimenopause including family planning needs.  

Db perimenopause | Nursing homework help

Perimenopause occurs in the period leading up to menopause. It is marked by physical and mental symptoms. Common signs of perimenopause include unreliable menstrual periods, hot flushes/night-sweats, and changes in mood (e.g. Vaginal dryness (depression, irritability), sleep disorders, bladder problems and weight gain are some of the most common signs. These can have various implications for both the patient’s physical health as well as their emotional wellbeing.

Untreated, these physical changes may increase the risk of certain conditions like heart disease and osteoporosis. They can also cause anxiety and stress, which could lead to other problems in life such as social interactions or work performance. While fertility may decrease during this time, it’s still possible to become pregnant. Contraception should therefore be discussed by all perimenopausal females who are sexually-active.

The clinical signs of perimenopause are useful indicators that can assist healthcare providers in diagnosing and treating any serious issues. Also, discussing the need for family planning can help patients better understand their options should they choose to get pregnant during this time.