Perimenopause is the stage leading up to menopause, when hormone levels begin to change. It most commonly begins in a woman’s 40s, although some women notice changes earlier.
For some women, the signs are quite noticeable. For others, they can be subtle or easy to put down to stress, a busy lifestyle or simply getting older.
Understanding some of the common signs of perimenopause can help you recognise when it may be worth speaking with your GP.
Changes to Your Periods
Changes to your menstrual cycle are one of the most common signs of perimenopause.
Your periods may become:
- More or less frequent
- Heavier or lighter
- Longer or shorter than usual
- Less predictable
While changes to periods can occur during perimenopause, unusual or particularly heavy bleeding should always be discussed with your doctor, as there can be other causes.
Hot Flushes and Night Sweats
Hot flushes can cause a sudden feeling of warmth, often affecting the face, neck and chest. They can vary significantly in frequency and intensity.
Night sweats are hot flushes that occur during sleep and may be significant enough to wake you or disrupt your sleep.
Supporting Mums Before and After Birth
Family healthcare at Women’s Health Hub can begin well before your baby arrives.
GPs provide prenatal and shared maternity care during pregnancy, as well as postnatal care for mothers following birth. Once your baby arrives, you can continue visiting the clinic for both your own healthcare and your child’s health needs.
Having this continuity can be particularly valuable during the early stages of parenthood, when your own health and your baby’s health are often closely connected.
Changes to Sleep
Difficulty sleeping can become more common during perimenopause.
Some women find it harder to fall asleep, wake frequently during the night or wake earlier than usual. Night sweats can contribute, but sleep changes can also occur independently.
Poor sleep can then have a flow-on effect on energy, concentration and mood.
Mood Changes
Hormonal changes during perimenopause may contribute to changes in mood. You might notice increased irritability, anxiety, low mood or feeling less emotionally resilient than usual.
There can be many reasons for changes in mental wellbeing, so it is important not to assume hormones are always the cause. A GP can help explore what may be contributing and discuss appropriate support.
Brain Fog and Difficulty Concentrating
Some women describe experiencing “brain fog” during perimenopause, including difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness or feeling less mentally sharp.
These changes can be frustrating, particularly when combined with disrupted sleep or increased stress.
Vaginal and Urinary Changes
Changes in oestrogen levels can affect vaginal and urinary health.
Some women may experience:
- Vaginal dryness
- Discomfort during sex
- Changes in sexual desire
- Increased urinary urgency
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
These symptoms are common and there are treatment options available, so you do not need to simply put up with them.
Changes to Your Body
Perimenopause can also coincide with changes in body composition, skin, hair, joints and overall energy levels.
However, not every change experienced during your 40s or 50s is caused by perimenopause. Your GP can consider your symptoms in the context of your broader health and investigate other possible causes where appropriate.
When Should You Speak to a GP?
There is no need to wait until symptoms become severe before discussing perimenopause with your doctor.
Consider making an appointment if changes to your cycle, sleep, mood or physical wellbeing are affecting your day-to-day life, or if you are simply unsure whether what you are experiencing could be related to perimenopause.
A consultation can also be an opportunity to discuss your broader health at this stage of life, including bone health, cardiovascular health, cervical screening, contraception and other preventive healthcare.
Perimenopause Care at Women’s Health Hub
The experienced female GPs consulting at Women’s Health Hub provide personalised care for women experiencing perimenopause and menopause.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Your GP can take the time to understand your symptoms, health history and individual concerns before discussing appropriate management and treatment options.
If you think you may be experiencing perimenopause, or simply want to better understand the changes you have noticed, you can book an appointment with a GP at Women’s Health Hub.