It quite often takes us a while to recognise a change in our own bodies. As women, most of us neglect our own health and put other peoples wellness and happiness above our own, why? It must be in our nature. Many women seek support from our clinic after having struggled with perimenopausal symptoms for quite a long time or even years before getting the help and support we need.
Everyone's experience of the perimenopause is very individual, just as time of puberty varies, menstrual patterns, period flow, experience of pregnancy and birth are all different, in the perimenopause we all have our own path and story to tell.
For the majority of women perimenopausal symptoms are insidious and it takes a while to notice that there has been change, however I have also treated women where the transition was more acute and happened very quickly over a matter of a few months, rather than a slow transition over a few years.
I hope this article helps you to recognise when you are experiencing possible signs and symptoms of the menopause transition and help you act on these sooner if needed.
The Signs of Perimenopause and Menopause: What to Expect and How to Navigate the Transition
Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life, yet it often comes with symptoms that can feel anything but normal.
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause when hormone levels begin to fluctuate. This stage can last anywhere from a few months to over a decade, typically beginning in a woman’s 40s but sometimes earlier.
Common Signs of Perimenopause
Irregular periods – Cycles may become shorter, longer, heavier, or lighter as ovulation becomes inconsistent.
Hot flushes and night sweats – Sudden feelings of heat, often followed by sweating and chills.
Mood changes – Increased irritability, anxiety, or low mood, often linked to fluctuating hormones.
Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling or staying asleep, sometimes due to night sweats or increased urination at night.
Brain fog and memory lapses – Difficulty concentrating or forgetting words mid-sentence.
Fatigue – A persistent feeling of tiredness despite adequate rest.
Changes in libido
Vaginal dryness and discomfort – Thinning vaginal tissues can lead to dryness and discomfort during intercourse.
Weight changes – Many women notice a shift in how their body stores fat, often around the abdomen.
Joint and muscle pain – Aches and stiffness, sometimes mistaken for aging or overuse injuries.
What is Menopause?
Menopause is officially diagnosed when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. At this point, oestrogen levels have significantly declined, and ovulation has ceased. The average age of menopause in the UK is between 45-51, but this varies.
Common Signs of Menopause
Many of the symptoms experienced during perimenopause continue into menopause, but some may intensify. These include:
Persistent hot flushes and night sweats
Ongoing mood changes, including depression and anxiety
More pronounced vaginal dryness and discomfort
Increased risk of osteoporosis and heart disease due to lower oestrogen levels
Hair thinning and skin changes – Oestrogen helps maintain collagen, so skin may become drier and less elastic.
Bladder issues – Increased urgency, frequency, or risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
How to Manage Symptoms
The good news is that there are many ways to manage perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms. Some options include:
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – Body-identical HRT can help balance hormones and alleviate many symptoms.
Lifestyle changes – A balanced diet, regular exercise, and good sleep hygiene can support overall well-being.
Stress management – Mindfulness, yoga, and breathing techniques can help with mood changes and anxiety.
Vaginal moisturisers and lubricants – Help with dryness and discomfort.
Supplements and alternative therapies – Some women find relief through supplements like vitamin D, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
When to Seek Professional Advice
If symptoms are affecting your quality of life, speak with one of our experienced menopause specialists. A menopause specialist can help you understand your options, including personalised HRT, lifestyle adjustments, and other treatments tailored to your needs.
Menopause is a transition, not an end. With the right knowledge and support, you can navigate this stage of life feeling informed, empowered, and in control.
We aim to improve your physical health, confidence, vitality and zest for life.
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