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Signs of perimenopause, and what can help
The early signs of perimenopause, the usual age it starts, how long it lasts, what can help, and when to talk to your doctor about symptoms.
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Signs of perimenopause, and what can help
Perimenopause is the time before menopause when hormone levels start to change. It often begins in your 40s and lasts about four years on average. Common signs are changes in your periods, hot flashes, night sweats, trouble sleeping, mood changes and brain fog. Menopause is confirmed after 12 months in a row without a period.
Written by the Gyne team · Medical review: pending
Key takeaways
- Perimenopause often starts in your 40s, sometimes in your late 30s.
- Changing periods are often the first sign.
- You can still get pregnant during perimenopause.
- Many symptoms can be treated, so it's worth talking to your doctor.
What are the first signs of perimenopause?
Signs vary a lot from person to person. Common ones include:
- Periods that come closer together, further apart, or become heavier or lighter.
- Hot flashes and night sweats.
- Trouble falling or staying asleep.
- Mood changes, irritability, anxiety or low mood.
- Brain fog and trouble concentrating.
- Vaginal dryness or discomfort during sex.
- Joint aches and tiredness.
How long does perimenopause last?
On average, about four years, but it can be a few months or more than ten years. In the US, the average age of menopause is around 51. Menopause is the point 12 months after your last period.
What can help with symptoms?
Small changes help some people: keeping the bedroom cool, layering clothes, regular exercise, limiting alcohol and caffeine if they trigger hot flashes, and keeping a steady sleep routine.
There are also effective treatments, including hormone therapy and non-hormonal options. Your doctor can talk through what's right for your symptoms and health history.
Can I still get pregnant?
Yes. As long as you're still having periods, even irregular ones, you can get pregnant. Doctors usually advise using contraception until you've gone 12 months without a period, or as your doctor advises.
When to see a doctor
- Symptoms affect your sleep, work, relationships or mood.
- You bleed very heavily, for longer than usual, or between periods.
- You have any bleeding after 12 months without a period.
- You have signs of perimenopause before age 40.
- You feel very low, anxious or hopeless. In the US, you can call or text 988.
How Gyne helps
Gyne tracks hot flashes, night sweats, sleep, mood and brain fog alongside your periods, shows the patterns, and prepares an editable report so your doctor sees the full picture.
Perimenopause and menopauseThis guide is general information, not medical advice. Only a doctor can diagnose a condition.