Perimenopause
Most women know that menopause can cause unpleasant symptoms, but what if you’re still having periods?
The early hormonal changes of the menopausal transition can be very subtle, and can even start whilst you’re still having regular periods that seem normal. For some people this can be up to 10 years before their final period!
Mood swings, irritability and rage are most common in perimenopause, which is when the hormonal fluctuations are greatest; they tend to worsen as you get closer to your final ovulation (menopause) and periods become more erratic or infrequent.
Periods can also become heavier for a variety of reasons including lower progesterone, fibroids in the uterus, or conditions like adenomysosis.
"Watch Dr Kelly Teagle's Presentation
"Demystifying Perimenopause"
with co-host and author Jo Pybus.”
During the menopausal transition:
45%
Have trouble sleeping through the night.
70%
Many women delay support until symptoms worsen.
80%
Experience disruptive symptoms.
50%
Report vaginal dryness affecting daily comfort.
When Should I Seek Help?
If symptoms affect daily life or sleep, it’s time to reach out.
FAQ's
Answers to common menopause questions, what’s normal, what’s not, and when to get support.
Yes. Perimenopause is the transition phase leading up to menopause, when hormone levels begin to fluctuate and symptoms such as hot flushes or irregular periods start. Menopause is reached when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, marking the end of reproductive years. After that, the body enters the postmenopause stage, when hormone levels remain low and some symptoms may ease over time.
Symptoms can include:
- Heavy periods
- Worsening mood issues, particularly pre-menstrually
- Changes to menstrual cycle
- Breast tenderness
- Weight gain
- Headaches
- Flushes or sweats
- Libido, vaginal or urinary issues
Perimenopause usually lasts between two and eight years, with an average of around four.
However, every woman’s experience is different – some move through perimenopause in as little as a year, while others may remain in this stage for many years.
Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age around 51. The transition phase, known as perimenopause, can begin several years earlier — often in a woman’s early to mid-40s. Factors like genetics, smoking, medical treatments, or certain health conditions can cause menopause to occur earlier.
The menopause transition, or perimenopause, usually lasts 4 to 8 years, but this can vary widely. During this time, hormone levels fluctuate, leading to symptoms like hot flushes, irregular periods, and mood changes. Menopause is officially reached 12 months after the final menstrual period, but some symptoms can continue for several years afterward as the body adjusts to lower hormone levels.
Yes. Menopause symptoms often fluctuate over time. Hormone levels naturally rise and fall during the transition, which can cause symptoms like hot flushes, mood changes, or sleep disturbances to come and go or vary in intensity. Some women experience symptom-free periods followed by a return of symptoms, while others notice gradual improvement as hormone levels stabilize after menopause.
Yes. Many women find relief from menopause symptoms through natural and lifestyle approaches, including:
- Regular exercise – supports mood, sleep, and temperature regulation.
- Balanced diet – rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and calcium for bone health.
- Phytoestrogens – found in soy, flaxseeds, and legumes, may gently balance hormones.
- Stress reduction – mindfulness, yoga, or breathing exercises can lessen hot flushes.
- Adequate sleep – maintain a cool, dark room and consistent bedtime routine.
- Avoiding triggers – limit alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods.
These natural methods can help manage symptoms and support overall wellbeing during the menopause transition.
Yes. Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can influence brain chemistry, affecting mood, memory, and emotional wellbeing. Common experiences include irritability, anxiety, low mood, or difficulty concentrating. Sleep disturbances from night sweats can worsen these effects. Lifestyle strategies, stress management, and, in some cases, medical treatments can help support mental health during this transition.
Yes. Hormonal changes during menopause, especially lower estrogen levels, can affect sexual health. Common effects include:
- Reduced libido or sexual desire
- Vaginal dryness, which can make intercourse uncomfortable
- Changes in arousal or orgasm
Using lubricants or moisturizers, maintaining open communication with partners, and discussing options like hormone therapy or non-hormonal treatments with a healthcare provider can help improve comfort and sexual wellbeing.
Yes. Making targeted lifestyle adjustments can significantly ease menopause symptoms:
- Regular exercise – improves mood, sleep, and helps manage weight.
- Balanced diet – rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and calcium for bone and heart health.
- Stress management – mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing can reduce hot flushes and irritability.
- Sleep hygiene – maintaining a cool, dark bedroom and consistent bedtime improves sleep quality.
- Avoiding triggers – limiting alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods can reduce hot flushes.
- Hydration – staying well-hydrated helps the body regulate temperature.
Combined, these changes can improve comfort, energy, and overall wellbeing during menopause.