How to Tell If You’re Entering Perimenopause
Perimenopause is the phase before menopause when your body starts to transition, and it can bring a variety of changes that might feel confusing at first. Knowing what signs to look for can help you understand if you’re entering this stage.
One of the earliest clues is a change in your menstrual cycle. Your periods may become irregular—they might come closer together or farther apart, be heavier or lighter than usual, or sometimes you might even skip a month. These changes happen because hormone levels, especially estrogen and progesterone, start fluctuating unpredictably.
Along with period changes, many women notice hot flashes—sudden feelings of warmth that spread over the body—and night sweats that disrupt sleep. Speaking of sleep, trouble falling asleep or staying asleep is common during perimenopause.
Mood shifts are another hallmark. You might find yourself feeling more anxious, irritable, or experiencing mood swings without an obvious reason. Some women also report brain fog—difficulty concentrating or remembering things—which can be frustrating but is part of this hormonal rollercoaster.
Physical symptoms vary widely but often include vaginal dryness which can make sex uncomfortable; joint and muscle aches; fatigue; hair thinning or loss; and weight gain around the abdomen. Some women experience heart palpitations (a feeling like your heart is racing) and increased frequency of urination as well.
Changes in libido are also common—some notice a drop in sexual desire while others may see fluctuations depending on their hormone levels at different times.
It’s important to remember these symptoms don’t all appear at once nor do they affect every woman the same way. They can come and go unpredictably as hormone levels rise and fall during perimenopause.
If you suspect you’re entering perimenopause based on these signs—irregular periods combined with hot flashes, mood changes, sleep problems—you’re likely experiencing this natural transition phase. Talking with your healthcare provider can help confirm what’s happening and guide ways to manage symptoms so life feels more balanced again during this time.
