We Examine Signs Perimenopause is Ending, and What You Should Do Next

If you’ve been in perimenopause for several years, you may be wondering when this stage ends, and menopause “officially” begins – and what it will feel like. Signs perimenopause is ending vary depending on the person, but the most reliable sign is infrequent periods. 

We’ll highlight signs of this phase, how long perimenopause lasts and how you’ll know when the transition to menopause has begun. If you need further guidance, you can talk to us during your annual wellness exam about what you’re experiencing and potential treatment options, if necessary.

How Long Does Perimenopause Last? 

Perimenopause is the transition leading up to your last period, when your hormone levels fluctuate and your menstrual cycle becomes irregular. This might mean longer or shorter periods than usual, heavier or lighter periods than you typically have, or even hot flashes in some cases. 

Perimenopause usually starts when you’re in your mid-to-late 40s, when your ovaries begin to produce less estrogen and progesterone, and can last between two and eight years. 

Though most women are in perimenopause for around four years before their period stops permanently, this time frame varies. In some cases, perimenopause may start up to 10 years before menopause. 

In addition to irregular periods, you may also experience symptoms during perimenopause that are like those of menopause, such as:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Mood swings
• Sleep disturbances

Signs Perimenopause is Ending 

There isn’t a definitive way to know in advance how long you will experience perimenopause or the specific symptoms you’ll have. The main sign you’re near the end of perimenopause is longer intervals between periods, sometimes more than 60 days. 

You’ll have reached menopause when you’ve gone 12 consecutive months without a period. 

What Factors Impact How Long Perimenopause Lasts

Factors that determine how long perimenopause lasts may include: 

• Genetics and family history 
• Your age when symptoms begin – if you start experiencing perimenopause symptoms earlier, you may have a longer transition period
• Lifestyle habits, such as:
  • Whether or not you smoke
  • If you experience chronic stress
  • If you’re overweight
• Your overall health status 

When Will I Know That Menopause Has Begun?

When you have gone 12 consecutive months without a period, menopause has started. 

Women typically begin menopause between the ages of 45 and 58, with the average age of menopause at 52. Menopause may begin later or earlier if you’ve never had children or if you smoke. 

In addition to irregular periods, other signs that perimenopause is ending and menopause is starting may include:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Thinning hair 
• Dry skin
• Vaginal dryness
• Low libido
• Memory lapses 
• Depression and anxiety
• Irritability and moodiness
• Insomnia and other sleep disturbances
• Weight gain, especially around the abdomen 

How Will Symptoms Change as Menopause Begins?

As menopause begins, some perimenopausal symptoms may continue or become more intense, such as:

• Hot flashes
• Sleep disturbances
• Vaginal dryness
• Night sweats
• Fatigue (due to sleep issues) 

However, other symptoms, like mood swings and irregular periods, may lessen.

Duration and intensity of symptoms can vary greatly. Some women experience mild symptoms, no symptoms at all, or symptoms that happen only every now and then, while others may experience intense and frequent symptoms that continue over a longer period of time.

What Does Menopausal Transition Mean?

The time period when your body gradually moves from your reproductive years to menopause is considered the menopausal transition. The symptoms of menopause can last between four or five years after menopause begins, but each person will experience a different set of symptoms and their own unique timeline from perimenopause to menopause to post-menopause.

Experience Comprehensive Care for All the Stages of Your Life 

No matter which phase of the transition you’re going through, if you’re experiencing disruptive symptoms that impact your daily life, we can help. Hormone replacement therapy is one option, though it’s not right for everyone. Non-hormonal treatments have also proven effective.

We invite you to contact us to discuss your treatment options. We’ll create a customized plan tailored specifically for you based on your symptoms and your overall health.