The nurse is obtaining a health history for a client during an annual physical examination. When evaluating the client for menopausal symptoms, which finding indicates the client is perimenopausal?

A. This is unlikely to be associated with perimenopause. Often, perimenopause is linked to hormonal fluctuations that can lead to decreased libido rather than an increase. B. While cessation of menstruation may indicate menopause, it is not typically seen during the perimenopausal phase, which is the time leading up to menopause. Perimenopause is characterized by irregular periods, not complete cessation. C. Perimenopausal symptoms typically involve a decrease in vaginal moisture due to reduced estrogen levels. Excessive vaginal moisture would not be indicative of perimenopause and might suggest an infection or other conditions. D. This is a classic symptom of perimenopause. Hormonal fluctuations during this time can lead to hot flashes and night sweats, which are commonly experienced as part of the transition toward menopause.