Many women use the terms interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Perimenopause is the transition leading up to menopause. Menopause is a point in time reached after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. Understanding where you are in the transition can help explain your symptoms and guide treatment decisions.
Take The Assessment Book AssessmentUsually begins during the late 30s to late 40s. Hormones fluctuate and symptoms often begin before periods stop.
Reached after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, assuming there is no other medical cause.
The years following menopause. Focus often shifts toward symptom management, bone health, cardiovascular health and healthy ageing.
Irregular periods, anxiety, sleep disruption, mood changes, brain fog, hot flushes and weight gain.
Hot flushes, night sweats, sleep changes, vaginal dryness, lower libido and continued weight changes.
Bone health, cardiovascular health, vaginal and urinary symptoms, strength, body composition and long-term prevention.
Yes. Ovulation may still occur during perimenopause, so pregnancy remains possible until menopause has been reached.
Yes. Many women experience symptoms years before their final menstrual period.
Not always. Symptoms, age and menstrual history often provide more useful information than a single hormone test.
If symptoms affect your quality of life, sleep, work, relationships, confidence or general wellbeing.
Understand why body composition changes during the menopause transition.
Learn why sleep disruption is so common during perimenopause and menopause.
Explore memory, focus and concentration changes.
Understand emotional changes and hormone-related mood shifts.
Learn how HRT decisions are individualised.
Find out which tests may be useful and why.
Start with the symptom quiz or book a structured menopause assessment to understand your symptoms and next steps.
Take The Quiz Book Assessment