What is perimenopause?

Despite affecting half the world's population, perimenopause is still a misunderstood area, surrounded by misconceptions and often stigma. Many women think of the menopause as the time of life leading up to, and after, their last period, though this is actually the transition phase called the perimenopause. Menopause officially starts 12 months after the last menstrual period. Once you reach menopause, the perimenopause period is over.

Three-quarters of women say that the perimenopause has caused them to change their lives, and more than half say it has a negative impact on their lives, according to a recent survey conducted in the UK.

‘Peri’ means near, and perimenopause means the natural transition into menopause, which marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. During perimenopause, hormone levels fluctuate, which can result in a range of symptoms that are often mistaken for other health conditions. It can be difficult to know if you are experiencing perimenopause, as oestrogen levels fluctuate, and there is no definitive test to diagnose it.  

Most women go through perimenopause between the ages of 40 and 50, but some may experience symptoms earlier. It’s important to note that no two women experience perimenopause in exactly the same way. You can tell you are in perimenopause if you have changes in your menstrual cycle length or flow, and symptoms such as hot flashes and sleep difficulties.  

How long does perimenopause last?

The duration of perimenopause can vary from woman to woman but the average length is 4 years. Some women might be in perimenopause for just a few months, while others may experience perimenopause symptoms for a decade, or even more.