Perimenopause Symptoms: What’s Normal and When to See a Doctor
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Perimenopause is the transition leading up to menopause, and it can bring changes that catch many women off guard. Knowing what’s normal, and what isn’t, makes it easier to manage symptoms and know when to get help.
Perimenopause vs. menopause
According to the Office on Women’s Health, menopause is reached when you have gone 12 months in a row without a period. The average age of menopause in the U.S. is 52. Perimenopause, the years before that, usually lasts between two and eight years, about four years for most women.
Common perimenopause symptoms
- Irregular periods (shorter, longer, heavier or lighter)
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Trouble sleeping
- Mood changes or irritability
- Vaginal dryness
- Less interest in sex
- Weight changes, especially around the belly (see our guide to menopause weight gain)
Important: you can still get pregnant during perimenopause, so keep using birth control until your doctor says it’s safe to stop.
What helps
- Keep cool: dress in layers and keep your bedroom cool. Cooling pillows and breathable sheets help some women sleep through night sweats.
- Protect your sleep: a regular schedule and a dark room help; a sleep mask can block early light.
- Stay active: regular exercise helps mood, sleep and weight. Try strength training twice a week.
- Limit triggers: alcohol, caffeine and spicy food can worsen hot flashes for some women.
- Talk to your doctor about treatment options, including hormone therapy and non-hormonal medicines.
When to see a doctor
Talk to a doctor if symptoms affect your daily life, or if you notice very heavy bleeding, bleeding that lasts much longer than usual, or bleeding between periods. The Office on Women’s Health notes that any vaginal bleeding after menopause is not normal and should be checked promptly.
Related reading
- Menopause weight gain: 6 strategies that help
- Protein for women over 40
- Strength training for beginners over 40
Sources
This article is for information only and is not medical advice. See our Medical Disclaimer.
