What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause, meaning "around menopause," is the transition before your final period. It ends at menopause, after which natural pregnancy is no longer expected. This phase typically begins in your mid-40s, though some women notice changes as early as their mid-30s.
During perimenopause, your ovaries gradually produce less estrogen. This hormonal shift causes the symptoms many women experience, from irregular periods to hot flashes and mood changes.
Perimenopause ends when you've gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period—that's when menopause officially begins. The average duration is 4-8 years, but every woman's experience is unique.
Common Perimenopause Symptoms
Every woman experiences perimenopause differently. Here are the most common symptoms to watch for:
Hot Flashes
Sudden feelings of warmth, especially in face, neck, and chest
Sleep Changes
Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, night sweats
Irregular Periods
Cycles may become shorter, longer, heavier, or lighter
Mood Changes
Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or feelings of sadness
Brain Fog
Difficulty concentrating, memory lapses, mental fatigue
Energy Fluctuations
Unexplained fatigue or sudden bursts of energy