• Early Perimenopause: You might still have fairly regular periods, but you’ll notice subtle changes. For example, cycles may be a little shorter or longer than usual.
  • Late Perimenopause: At this stage, you may go months without a period. Hot flashes, mood swings, and other symptoms can become more intense.

Perimenopause can come with a wide variety of signs and symptoms. Some women have mild discomfort, while others find the symptoms disruptive to daily life. Here are some common signs to watch out for:

  • Irregular periods: Your periods may become unpredictable—sometimes heavier, sometimes lighter, or they may skip months altogether.
  • Hot flashes: Sudden waves of heat that can last anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes.
  • Night sweats: These are like hot flashes but happen when you’re asleep, often waking you up.
  • Mood swings: Many women report feeling irritable, anxious, or depressed during perimenopause.
  • Sleep problems: Trouble falling or staying asleep is another frustrating symptom.
  • Decreased libido: A dip in sex drive can occur due to hormonal fluctuations.
  • Vaginal dryness: This can make intimacy uncomfortable, but it’s manageable with the right treatments.

If you’re looking for more in-depth information on the symptoms and causes of perimenopause, the Mayo Clinic provides a comprehensive guide covering what to expect during this transition and how to manage common symptoms.