Perimenopause, the transitional phase before menopause, often begins in a woman’s 40s but can start as early as the late 30s. It marks the time when hormonal changes become more noticeable, leading to various physical, emotional, and mental shifts. Recognising these early signs can be the key to managing symptoms more effectively and feeling empowered throughout this life stage.

What Happens During Perimenopause?
As estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate, the body begins to show signs of these hormonal changes. While each woman’s experience is unique, the average age for the onset of perimenopause is around 45, though symptoms can start earlier. This stage can last anywhere from a few months to several years, with the intensity and type of symptoms varying greatly from woman to woman and even month to month.
Early Symptoms to Watch For
The signs of perimenopause may be subtle at first and easily confused with other life stressors or health issues. Below are some of the most common physical, emotional, and mental changes to look out for:
1. Irregular periods – Your menstrual cycle may become unpredictable, with missed periods, shorter or longer cycles, or heavier and lighter bleeding.
2. Hot flashes and night sweats – Sudden feelings of heat, especially at night, are a hallmark symptom for many women.
3. Sleep disturbances – Difficulty falling or staying asleep often accompanies hormonal changes.
4. Mood swings – Anxiety, irritability, and even depression can surface as hormones fluctuate.
5. Low libido – A reduction in sexual desire may occur due to hormonal shifts.
6. Vaginal dryness – Decreased estrogen levels can lead to vaginal discomfort during sex or throughout the day.
7. Joint pain – Unexpected aches and pains, particularly in the joints, can be one of the lesser-known symptoms.
8. Brain fog – Struggling with concentration, memory lapses, or feeling more forgetful is a common mental change.
Comprehensive List of Perimenopause Symptoms
There are roughly 37 recognized symptoms of perimenopause, though with further medical studies we are expecting this list to grow, and these reflect the wide range of experiences women can face:
1. Irregular periods
2. Hot flashes
3. Night sweats
4. Sleep disturbances
5. Anxiety
6. Depression
7. Mood swings
8. Low libido
9. Vaginal dryness
10. Weight gain
11. Fatigue
12. Brain fog
13. Joint pain
14. Headaches
15. Breast tenderness
16. Bloating
17. Dizziness
18. Dry eyes
19. Hair loss
20. Brittle nails
21. Skin changes (dryness, acne)
22. Heart palpitations
23. Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
24. Digestive issues
25. Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
26. Bladder urgency
27. Body odor changes
28. Electric shock sensations
29. Burning mouth
30. Sore gums
31. Muscle tension
32. Allergies
33. Osteoporosis risk
34. Thinning hair
35. Increased stress response
36. Difficulty swallowing
37. Tingling in extremities
It’s important to remember that no two women will experience perimenopause in the same way. Some may have only a few symptoms, while others may experience several. There is no “right” way to go through this transition, so avoid comparing your journey to others.
Why Diagnosis Can Be Challenging
Because of the wide variety of symptoms, diagnosing perimenopause can be tricky. Blood tests and hormone panels are often unreliable, as hormone levels fluctuate greatly during this time. Many women are sadly not diagnosed until they are already postmenopausal, and symptoms like mood changes or fatigue are sometimes dismissed as unrelated.
That’s why self-awareness and tracking your symptoms is key. Apps like Balance allow you to monitor changes in your body, giving you a clear picture of what you’re experiencing over time.
Finding Support
At Womankind, we offer Initial Wellness Consultations to help you identify the areas where you need support. By working together, we can develop a plan that targets the symptoms most affecting your daily life and help you regain control. From managing difficulty sleeping to navigating the emotional ups and downs, to more intimate symptoms like vaginal health and UTI's, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Tip for Tracking Symptoms
If you suspect you might be in perimenopause, start tracking your symptoms. Using the Balance app is a great way to stay on top of changes, and it can be a helpful tool when speaking to a healthcare professional about your experience.
Remember, You’re Not Alone
As we mark Menopause Awareness Month, let’s break the silence around perimenopause. Educating ourselves and sharing our experiences helps demystify this natural life stage. If you’re unsure whether the changes you’re feeling are related to perimenopause, seeking help early can make all the difference in managing your symptoms.