Many women, realizing that they are beginning to enter the menopause soon they stop using contraceptive methods But if you no longer wish to have children, beware: it is perfectly possible to get pregnant during premenopause! "During this period, the female hormones are in a 'yo-yo' mode, but the ovaries continue to release eggs," explains gynecologist and obstetrician Rodrigo Ferrarese.

What is premenopause?

This is the period (also known as perimenopause) that precedes menstruation This 'transition to menopause' generates unpredictable ovulation cycles. estrogen The phase can last for years, and the ovaries release eggs for fertilization.

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How do I know if I can get pregnant during premenopause?

The math is simple: if you haven't reached menopause - defined as 12 consecutive months without menstruation - you can still get pregnant.

"Patients with a history of infertility The same applies to women with premature ovarian failure. Although it looks like they are in menopause, these people can still ovulate and discover a pregnancy", says Rodrigo.

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Am I pregnant or in pre-menopause?

The doctor states that these cases are indeed rarer. However, the pregnancy symptoms can be confused with those of perimenopause - especially in the first few weeks. So if you are experiencing irregular menses and are not using any contraceptives, it is worth considering an examination. "This is especially important for women with abdominal discomfort, which may indicate a life-threatening tubal pregnancy."

To avoid having a baby in the transition to menopause, use a method contraceptive "Remembering that natural family planning (the famous tabelinha ) is not recommended for premenopausal women, since irregular menstruation makes it difficult to predict ovulation," advises the gynecologist.

There are many options for contraception. The ideal thing is to talk to your doctor and have the necessary tests done. This is because he or she can discuss risks, effectiveness rates, and treatments for relief of premenopausal symptoms.

Read also: Myths and truths about menopause

Source: Rodrigo Ferrarese, gynecologist and obstetrician.