What can change around perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transition leading up to menopause. It commonly begins between ages 45 and 55, although timing varies. Menopause itself is defined as 12 months without a menstrual period when that change is not explained by another cause.
The symptoms can be physical, emotional or both. Some women notice several changes at once; others have only a few or very mild symptoms.
10 signs worth knowing
01
Changes in your periodsYour cycle may become less predictable. Periods can become closer together, farther apart, heavier or lighter.
02
Hot flashes and night sweatsA sudden feeling of heat, sweating or flushing can happen during the day or at night. Night sweats can also disturb sleep.
03
Sleep problemsYou may have trouble falling asleep, wake during the night or wake earlier than usual. Night sweats can make this worse.
04
Mood changesIrritability, mood swings, low mood or increased anxiety can occur during the transition.
05
Brain fog and concentration changesSome women notice forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating or feeling mentally less sharp than usual.
06
Vaginal dryness or discomfortDryness, irritation or discomfort during sex can become more noticeable as estrogen levels change.
07
Urinary changesSome women experience urgency, leakage or more frequent urinary symptoms, including an increased tendency toward UTIs.
08
Headaches or migrainesHeadaches or migraines can change around the menopausal transition, including becoming more noticeable for some women.
09
Joint, muscle or body changesStiffness, aches, changes in body composition and a different distribution of body fat can become more noticeable in midlife.
10
Hair and skin changesHair thinning or hair loss and drier or itchier skin can occur alongside other menopause-related changes.
What to pay attention to
01
Look for patterns. A single restless night tells you very little. A recurring pattern of poor sleep, night sweats and cycle changes is more useful information.
02
Write things down. A simple note of cycle changes, sleep, hot flashes and mood can make it easier to explain what is happening at an appointment.
03
Do not assume every symptom is menopause. Midlife symptoms can have other causes too. New, persistent or worrying symptoms deserve proper medical advice.
When it is worth speaking with a healthcare professional
Talk with a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional if symptoms are affecting your everyday life, if you are unsure whether what you are experiencing is related to menopause, or if a symptom is new or unusually severe.
Bleeding after you have gone 12 months without a period should be checked. Very heavy or unusual bleeding should also be discussed with a healthcare professional rather than simply attributed to menopause.
A practical approach to everyday symptoms
You do not have to overhaul your life because of a few symptoms. Start with the problems that bother you most: keep the bedroom cooler if night sweats are an issue, protect your sleep routine, stay physically active, eat a balanced diet and note which changes seem to make symptoms better or worse.
Sources: National Institute on Aging and NHS guidance on menopause and perimenopause symptoms. This page is for general information and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for medical advice.
NIA menopause overview ·
NHS symptoms guide
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