Perimenopause is the transitional phase prior to natural menopause usually beginning three to five years prior to a woman’s final menstrual period. Fluctuations in hormone levels commonly characterize this phase.
Women begin noticing changes occurring in their bodies due to declining levels of estrogen. Menstrual changes and short-term physical symptoms (similar to menopause symptoms) may occur including the following:
- Hot flashes/night sweats/crawly skin
- Insomnia
- Irritability, mood swings/panic attacks/anxiety