During the years that lead up to menopause, your hormone levels decrease. This completely natural part of life, called perimenopause, causes your body to go through some changes that you can manage with a little help.

Mood changes. Many women in midlife experience depression, mood swings, or irritability. Some simple ways to cope with these changes include chatting with friends or getting some exercise to reduce stress. Talk with your doctor if your sad moods are prolonged and severe.

Physical changes. Lower estrogen levels can result in less vaginal lubrication, which can make intercourse painful. One solution is to use one of the many over-the-counter vaginal lubricants.

Hot flashes. Try to avoid triggers such as high temperatures, spicy food, and drinking alcohol or caffeine.

Perimenopausal changes may happen, but you can help yourself handle them.