Which term describes erratic bleeding and vasomotor symptoms signaling menopause?

• A. Menopause
• B. Postmenopausal bleeding
• C. Ovarian insufficiency
• D. Perimenopause

Answer: (D)

Perimenopause is the transitional period when ovarian function becomes erratic, causing irregular, unpredictable bleeding as cycles fluctuate. Estrogen levels also swing during this time, producing vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Together, erratic bleeding and these vasomotor symptoms signal that menopause is approaching, not yet reached. Once 12 months without menses occur, menopause is considered established, and postmenopausal bleeding would be any bleeding after that point, which requires evaluation. Ovarian insufficiency is a broader term that doesn’t specifically describe this common transitional phase with the characteristic vasomotor symptoms.