Perimenopause is the transition before menopause, when hormone levels change and periods become irregular. It often starts in a woman's 40s and ends once she has gone 12 months without a period.
Hormone changes in perimenopause can cause:
Symptoms vary a lot. Some women have few, and others find them hard to live with.
The perimenopause stage can last several years. Menopause itself is confirmed when a woman has not had a period for 12 months and is not using hormonal contraception. Most reach menopause between 45 and 55.
There is no routine test for perimenopause. A GP will usually diagnose it from age and symptoms. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, talking therapies and HRT, and a doctor can explain the benefits and risks of each.
Poor sleep, hot flushes and brain fog can make work harder. Temperature control, a desk fan, access to cold water, flexible hours and time off for GP appointments are practical forms of support.
Sources: NHS, NHS (symptoms), MedlinePlus.
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