What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause — the point at which your periods stop completely. It can begin in your early 40s, sometimes earlier, and typically lasts around four to eight years.
During this time, your hormone levels fluctuate unpredictably. It's these fluctuations — rather than the low hormone levels of full menopause — that cause many of the symptoms women find most disruptive.
Common perimenopause symptoms
The symptoms of perimenopause are wide-ranging and often dismissed. Common signs include hot flushes and night sweats, trouble sleeping, mood changes and anxiety, brain fog, irregular or heavy periods, and changes in libido or vaginal comfort.
What surprises many women is that symptoms can begin while your periods are still regular. You don't have to wait until your cycles change to seek help.
When to see a GP
It's worth speaking with a GP if your symptoms are affecting your sleep, mood, work, relationships or quality of life. You don't need to 'push through' — and you don't need to wait until things become unbearable.
It's also important to see a doctor if your periods become very heavy, last longer than usual, or come more frequently, as these can sometimes signal other issues that need checking.
Related condition
Menopause & perimenopause →References & sources
- 1.Menopause — Jean Hailes for Women's Health
- 2.Menopause — Better Health Channel
- 3.Hormone replacement therapy — healthdirect
- 4.Post-menopause — healthdirect
- 5.Menopause health info — Australasian Menopause Society
This content is general information and not a substitute for individual medical advice. Please consult a GP for your personal situation.
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