6 Signs You've Reached Perimenopause

Menopause is often spoken about as a single event or stage of life, but it doesn’t happen like that. Instead, you gradually undergo changes leading up to full menopause. This begins with perimenopause, which is when symptoms begin appearing and your hormone levels begin to drop. It can be difficult to adapt, but there are ways to make it more comfortable. 

At NY Midtown OB/GYN, with locations in Midtown, New York, New York, and Westchester, Mamaroneck, New York, our team of experienced women’s reproductive health professionals can help you deal with symptoms related to perimenopause and menopause. 

Stages of menopause 

It’s not uncommon for people to refer to the entire menopausal transition as menopause, but it can actually be broken down into four stages: premenopause, perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. The differences between these four stages are subtle, and they’re sometimes used interchangeably.  

Perimenopause marks the beginning of your menopausal transition. During this time, you might experience the classic signs, like hot flashes, irregular periods, mood swings, and other menopausal symptoms. However, your body is still ovulating, and there is still a chance you can become pregnant. 

Signs of perimenopause 

The signs of perimenopause are typical menopausal symptoms, but less frequent or intense. Here are six common examples. 

1. Irregular and abnormal periods

During perimenopause, your period might arrive late, skip a month, get heavier, or consist of light spotting. Try to keep track of these changes if you can. Additional bleeding should warrant an evaluation with your gynecologist

2. Hot flushes and night sweats

During perimenopause, you may experience mild or infrequent, inconsistent episodes of hot flushes or night sweats.

3. Weight gain and hair loss

Hormonal changes can cause you to gain weight and lose hair

4. Poor sleep

Between night sweats, hot flashes, and insomnia, menopause can make it difficult to sleep well. 

5. Brain fog 

Many women beginning menopause report a lack of concentration, forgetfulness, and overall brain fog.  Poor sleep can contribute to this. 

6. Lack of sex drive 

Not only do you crave sex less, but it’s less enjoyable overall. Vaginal dryness can even make sex uncomfortable and unpleasant, only further lowering your libido. 

When to consult a specialist

Perimenopause can begin anywhere from 2-8 years before menopause and typically lasts about 4 years. It’s recommended that you visit a gynecologist when symptoms begin appearing. Your needs change as you enter menopause, and your provider should adjust your care to fulfill those needs. 

At NY Midtown OB/GYN, our team works with patients to make every stage of the menopausal transition as comfortable as possible. To get in touch, call one of our locations or visit the contact page to request an appointment.