Perimenopause
perimenopause
Perimenopause is the phase before menopause when your ovaries, which make hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, begin to slow down.
But rather than switching off gradually, they go through bursts of activity followed by quiet spells. This on-and-off pattern explains why hormone levels rise and fall erratically, creating a rollercoaster of symptoms—with mood swings, energy dips, irregular periods, and those infamous hot flashes. It’s these unpredictable swings—not just the overall drop—that make perimenopause so tricky.
This phase usually starts during your late 30s or 40s (but can occur earlier) and can last 2–10 years. Early perimenopause often begins with subtle changes—slightly irregular periods, sleep issues, or mood fluctuations. In late perimenopause, the shifts tend to be more obvious: skipped periods, more intense hot flashes, and increased fatigue. This final stretch usually lasts 1–3 years before menopause (which is marked by 12 months without a period).
Diagnosis and management of perimenopause is guided by symptoms, which can include:
- Irregular periods
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Mood swings, feeling anxious or low
- Trouble sleeping
- Vaginal dryness or discomfort during sex
- Brain fog or trouble focusing
- Brain fog or trouble focusing
- Urinary incontinence
Too often, women are expected to simply “get through” perimenopause—navigating confusing symptoms with little information or support.
But you don’t have to do this on your own. At ALLY Health, we understand how disruptive this stage can be, and we’re here to help.
Whether your symptoms are mild or overwhelming, we offer personalised, evidence-based care to support you through the changes and help you feel more like yourself again.
