Perimenopause

If you’re in your 30s or 40s and are noticing new symptoms that seem to be related to hormones, then you may be experiencing perimenopause (read on below).

What is perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the period of life (2-12 years) before menopause where you’re most likely to experience symptoms associated with hormonal changes, especially fluctuations in estrogen.

Signs you're perimenopausal

According to Dr. Jerilynn Prior, Canadian endocrinologist, a woman is likely to be in perimenopause if she has any 3 of the following 9 changes, despite regular menstrual cycles:
  • New onset heavy and/or longer flow
  • Shorter menstrual cycles (less than 25 days)
  • New sore, swollen, or lumpy breasts
  • New mid-sleep waking
  • Increased menstrual cramps
  • Onset of night sweats, in particular premenstrually
  • New or markedly increased migraine headaches
  • New or increased premenstrual mood swings
  • Weight gain without changes in exercise or eating

Perimenopause Symptoms

  • Hot flashes & night sweats
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Irregular bleeding