What perimenopause is
Perimenopause is the transition before menopause, when hormone levels start to fluctuate. It often begins in the early to mid forties and can last several years. Periods may come closer together or further apart, become heavier or lighter, and symptoms can appear even while cycles are still fairly regular.
Common signs
Hot flushes and night sweats, broken sleep, mood changes, brain fog, joint aches, vaginal dryness and changes in libido are all common. Not every woman has all of them, and many are not told that these signs can be linked to perimenopause.
Support in this collection
PeriMenoFriend was rated 5/5 and named Best Perimenopause Supplement by BBC Good Food. GUUD Perimenopause, the Perimenopause Kit and the Menopause Kit are also here. For the years after your last period, see Menopause.
Talking to your doctor
Keeping a short diary of cycles and symptoms helps your doctor. Very heavy bleeding, bleeding between periods or after sex should always be checked. If you use or are considering HRT, check with your doctor before adding a supplement.