Perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause when your body starts to produce less estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle. While many people expect perimenopause to begin in their mid-40s or 50s, it can actually start much earlier—even as young as 37.
At 37, you might be in perimenopause if you notice changes in your menstrual cycle. Your periods could become irregular—sometimes shorter or longer, heavier or lighter than usual. This happens because hormone levels are fluctuating unpredictably during this time.
Besides changes in your period, you may experience other symptoms that feel unusual for someone under 40. These can include hot flashes and night sweats—brief waves of heat spreading through your body—or feeling more tired than normal with little energy to get through the day.
Mood swings and anxiety are also common because estrogen influences brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine that help regulate mood. You might find yourself feeling more irritable or anxious without a clear reason.
Physical symptoms like breast tenderness or an increase in breast size can occur due to shifting hormone balances. Some women notice bloating similar to what they experienced during PMS, along with digestive issues such as increased burping or gas.
Other less obvious signs include brain fog—a difficulty concentrating or remembering things—and even internal tremors, which some describe as a subtle shaking sensation inside their body.
It’s important to remember these symptoms vary widely from person to person; some women have mild effects while others find them quite disruptive. Factors like lifestyle, overall health, and genetics play a role in how early perimenopause starts and how it feels day-to-day.
If you’re experiencing these kinds of changes at 37, it doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong—it could simply be your body’s natural transition toward menopause starting earlier than average. Talking with a healthcare provider can help confirm whether these signs are related to perimenopause and discuss ways to manage any uncomfortable symptoms effectively.
