PERImenopause 101
WHAT IS PERIMENOPAUSE?
Perimenopause can feel like a hormonal puzzle with no instructions.
And its symptoms can start as early as your mid-30s.
That’s why we created this space—with essential info, expert-reviewed articles, and practical tools to help you understand your body and support yourself during this transition.
Perimenopause is the phase leading up to menopause. It’s marked by hormonal fluctuations and the appearance of symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, irregular periods, and sleep disturbances.
This stage can last for several years—typically between 4 and 8—and ends when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without menstruating.Get the Facts
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the most common symptoms of perimenopause?
Symptoms include:
Changes in the duration and frequency of the menstrual cycle
Hot flashes and night sweats
Insomnia or interrupted sleep
Mood swings or irritability
Decreased sexual desire
Vaginal dryness
How is perimenopause diagnosed?
Perimenopause is diagnosed primarily based on symptoms and changes in your menstrual cycle. In some cases, doctors may order hormonal tests to rule out other conditions—but these tests are not always necessary.
Can I get pregnant during perimenopause?
Yes. While fertility declines during perimenopause, ovulation can still occur. If you don’t want to become pregnant, it’s important to continue using contraception until a healthcare provider confirms you’ve reached menopause (defined as 12 consecutive months without a period).
What treatment options are available to relieve perimenopausal symptoms?
Treatment depends on the intensity of the symptoms and may include:
Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, stress management)
Hormone therapy in some cases
Non-hormonal medications (such as antidepressants for hot flashes or anxiety)
Supplements or vaginal moisturizers, if needed.
When should I see a doctor during perimenopause?
You should see a healthcare provider if:
Your symptoms affect your quality of life
Your periods are excessively heavy or very irregular
You experience anxiety, depression, or extreme fatigue
You have questions about contraception or possible health risks
Perimenopause 101
FEATURED ARTICLes
A selection of key readings to support you through this stage. Clear, useful, and reliable information on menopause, wellness, and self-care.
- Perimenopause 101
Sleep Problems During Menopause: Causes, Solutions, and Better Rest Meta Description: Trouble sleeping during menopause? Learn how hormones, hot flashes,...
Cognitive Changes in Menopause: Memory, Focus, and What You Can Do Meta Description: Trouble concentrating or remembering things during menopause?...
Yes, Dry Eyes Can Be a Menopause Symptom If your eyes feel dry, gritty, or tired, it may not just...
Many women experience vaginal dryness, discomfort, and urinary symptoms during menopause due to declining estrogen levels. These changes, part of...
Perimenopausal symptoms can begin in your 30s.
100% OF WOMEN WILL EXPERIENCE PERIMENOPAUSE, BUT…