Menopause is a natural part of aging, but the journey through it varies widely for each woman. There are three distinct stages: perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. Each phase brings unique changes in the body and symptoms, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. An initial wellness consultation can help assess which stage you are in, providing personalised guidance on how to manage your symptoms and navigate this transition. We have also left a free self assessment link at the bottom incase you want to take a quiz to help guide you.

Perimenopause: The Beginning of Things Changing
Perimenopause, typically starts in your early 40s but can begin from around 37. This stage lasts an average of 4 to 10 years, leading up to menopause. During this time, your ovaries gradually produce less estrogen, and hormone levels fluctuate, leading to irregular periods and other symptoms.
Common Symptoms Include:
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Mood swings and irritability
• Sleep disturbances
• Changes in libido & vaginal dryness
• Unexplained weight gain
While these symptoms can be frustrating and confusing, perimenopause is an opportunity to focus on self-care and understand the changes happening in your body. It’s important to note that even though your periods may become irregular, pregnancy is still possible during this time, and it’s worth tracking periods to give you a clear picture of your cycles and symptoms.
Menopause: The Big Milestone
Menopause officially begins 12 months after your last period. The average age for menopause is 51, but it can vary widely. At this point, your ovaries have stopped releasing eggs, and your body’s estrogen production has significantly decreased.
Common Symptoms Include:
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Difficulty sleeping or insomnia
• Vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse
• Mood changes, including anxiety or depression
• Decreased bone density
• Joint pain or stiffness
Some of these symptoms may have started during perimenopause and continue through menopause. While menopause can feel like a significant life change, it’s important to remember that it’s a natural phase. With the right support, many women are able to manage their symptoms and embrace this time in their lives.
Postmenopause: A New Chapter
Once you’ve reached menopause, you’ll enter postmenopause, which lasts for the rest of your life. While many symptoms experienced during perimenopause and menopause may gradually ease, some women continue to experience issues like vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and difficulty sleeping. Additionally, the drop in estrogen can lead to an increased risk of health conditions like osteoporosis and heart disease, so it’s important to stay on top of your health during this stage.
Common Symptoms Include:
• Persistent vaginal dryness
• Ongoing hot flashes or night sweats
• Increased risk of osteoporosis and heart disease
• Bladder issues or frequent urinary tract infections
While the postmenopause phase may bring new health concerns, it’s also an opportunity to prioritize your long-term well-being. A balanced lifestyle with a focus on nutrition, exercise, and mental health can make all the difference.
How to Assess Where You Are
If you’re unsure what stage of menopause you’re in, consider taking a free online self-assessment quiz. These tools can help you better understand your symptoms and where you are in the transition. Here’s a link to one you can try.
Need Support?
If you’d like to explore personalized strategies for managing your symptoms at any stage of menopause, consider booking one of our individual sessions. We’re here to support you in navigating this journey with confidence and care.
