5 Signs You've Reached Perimenopause

Perimenopause marks the transition to menopause – the time when your period ends. Women can experience symptoms as early as their mid-thirties or as late as their mid-fifties. 

Perimenopause is a transitional phase of fertility that can last anywhere from a few months to several years. Recognizing the signs can help you manage symptoms and make informed decisions about your health. The OB/GYN team at Women’s Care of Beverly Hills is here to help you identify symptoms of perimenopause and manage any that become uncomfortable. 

If you’re not sure if you’re in transition, read on for five common signs that you may have reached perimenopause.

1. Irregular periods

One of the primary signs of perimenopause is changes in your menstrual cycle. You might notice:

• Periods becoming shorter or longer
• Skipped cycles or heavier-than-usual bleeding
• Spotting between periods

These changes are caused by fluctuating hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, which affect ovulation and your cycle’s regularity.

2. Hot flashes and night sweats

You’ve probably heard about hot flashes: sudden feelings of intense heat, often accompanied by sweating and a flushed face. During perimenopause, your flashes can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes. Night sweats can disrupt your sleep, leaving you feeling fatigued during the day.

3. Mood changes

Perimenopause can affect your emotional well-being. You might experience:

• Irritability or anxiety
• Mood swings that seem to come out of nowhere
• An increased risk of depression, especially if you have a history of mood disorders

Hormonal fluctuations are often the cause of these emotional changes. You may also experience changes in mood because of the stress of navigating this life stage. We can help support your mental health.

4. Changes in sleep patterns

Sleep disturbances are another common sign of perimenopause. You might find it hard to fall or stay asleep, even without night sweats. Insomnia during perimenopause is often linked to hormonal shifts and can make you feel even more fatigued and moody.

5. Physical changes

You may notice changes in your body, such as:

• Weight gain, especially around the midsection
• Thinning hair or dry skin
• Vaginal dryness or discomfort during intercourse

These symptoms occur as your body adjusts to lower levels of estrogen and other hormones. We offer non-invasive treatments like the MonaLisa Touch®, which helps revitalize thinning tissue and restore moisture.

Managing perimenopause

If you recognize these signs, come see our team for help managing perimenopause. We recommend lifestyle changes and treatments to help manage symptoms. These include maintaining a balanced diet and staying active as well as stress management through yoga, meditation, or therapy. 

We also offer medical support like hormone therapy to help you maintain balance in your body.

While perimenopause is a natural stage of life, some symptoms may require medical attention. If you experience any of the following, reach out to us:

• Extremely heavy or prolonged bleeding
• Symptoms that interfere with your daily life
• Concerns about mood changes or physical discomfort

At Women’s Care of Beverly Hills, we’re here to support you through every stage of your gynecological health. If you’re experiencing signs of perimenopause, schedule an appointment with our team today by calling Call or through the online tool to discuss how we can support you.