Peri-Menopause and Menopause

A whole lot of difference!

Think of perimenopause as the “transition phase” before menopause. Your hormones start to fluctuate, and your periods can get irregular—sometimes lighter, sometimes heavier, or even skipped. You might notice hot flashes, mood swings, brain fog, or changes in energy. Even though your body is shifting, your periods haven’t completely stopped yet. This phase usually starts in your 40s and can last several years.

Menopause, on the other hand, is the official milestone: your periods have completely stopped for 12 months in a row, and your hormone levels settle at a lower, more stable level. Some symptoms from perimenopause, like hot flashes or sleep changes, may continue, but your body has officially moved into a new phase of life.

Symptoms are often vague and difficult to pin-point, so we have listed the most common Menopause changes for you here

1. Menstrual & Reproductive Changes

Irregular periods: cycles may be shorter, longer, or skipped entirely.
Heavier or lighter bleeding: spotting or unexpectedly heavier flow.
End of fertility: menopause marks the permanent end of ovulation and menstruation.
Vaginal changes: thinning vaginal walls, dryness, irritation, and less elasticity.
Sexual changes: decreased libido, pain during intercourse (dyspareunia), and reduced natural lubrication.

2. Hot Flashes & Night Sweats

Hot flashes: sudden feelings of intense heat, often starting in the chest or face.
Flushing or redness: sometimes accompanied by rapid heartbeat or sweating.
Night sweats: hot flashes that disrupt sleep and lead to fatigue.

3. Sleep Disturbances

Trouble falling asleep.
Waking frequently at night.
Insomnia or poor sleep quality.
Night sweats contributing to disrupted rest.

4. Emotional & Mood Changes

Mood swings: sudden shifts in emotions, irritability, or frustration.
Anxiety or nervousness: heightened stress response.
Depression or low mood: persistent sadness or lack of motivation.
Emotional sensitivity: feeling more easily overwhelmed or tearful.

5. Cognitive & Brain Symptoms

Brain fog: feeling mentally fuzzy, slow, or “cloudy.”
Forgetfulness: difficulty recalling words, names, or daily tasks.
Concentration issues: trouble focusing or multitasking.
Memory lapses: misplacing items or forgetting appointments.

6. Physical & Body Changes

Fatigue: low energy, feeling tired despite rest.
Weight gain: especially around the abdomen due to hormonal shifts.
Hair changes: thinning, hair loss, or changes in hair texture.
Skin changes: dryness, loss of elasticity, fine lines, or wrinkles.
Changes in metabolism: slower metabolism, making weight management harder.

7. Musculoskeletal & Joint Changes

Joint stiffness or aches: especially in knees, hips, and shoulders.
Muscle weakness or tension: decreased muscle mass over time.
Bone density loss: increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

8. Cardiovascular & Metabolic Changes

Palpitations: irregular or rapid heartbeat.
Blood pressure changes: may rise during menopause.
Cholesterol changes: shifts in lipid levels increasing heart disease risk.
Insulin sensitivity changes: slightly higher risk of metabolic syndrome or diabetes.