What is perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, during which hormone levels fluctuate and periods become irregular. It can begin years before your final period, often starting in the mid-to-late 40s, though it can start earlier for some women.

During perimenopause, estrogen and progesterone levels rise and fall unevenly, which is why symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep disruption often begin well before periods stop entirely.