Confusion surrounds the treatment for perimenopause. Estrogen users must exercise extreme caution, as excessive estrogen in the face of inadequate progesterone can lead to cancer of the uterine lining. There is also controversy surrounding a possible link between breast cancer and HRT, though no data is conclusive. Testimonials abound supporting progesterone cream. However, claims about the magic of progesterone still lack valid scientific support.
Many women experience great symptomatic relief from low-dose birth control pills.
Smokers and women with underlying cardiovascular or liver disease may not use the pill. However, many healthy women in their 40s use the pill successfully. Diminished libido is a common issue for perimenopausal women. These women usually report that sex is fine once it gets under way, but that motivation to initiate is lacking. Counseling can help as well.