What is perimenopause and menopause?
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Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life when her periods stop for good. It usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55, although it can happen earlier or later. Menopause marks the end of fertility, which means a woman can no longer get pregnant naturally. It happens because the body produces less of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone, which are needed to release eggs and have regular periods.
What is perimenopause?
Before menopause happens, most people go through a phase called perimenopause. This is the time when hormone levels start to change and the body begins preparing for menopause. Perimenopause can last for a few months or several years. For some, it starts in their 30s or early 40s, although most often it begins in the mid-to-late 40s.
During perimenopause, periods may become irregular – they might be heavier, lighter, or happen closer together or further apart. Other signs can include hot flushes (sudden feelings of warmth), mood swings, brain fog, difficult...
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