Perimenopause: The telltale first signs (and what to do about them)

Irregular periods, new fatigue, lighter sleep, a changing belly... and the question: "Is it starting?" If you are between 40 and 50, these signs may signal perimenopause — the transition phase before menopause. Understanding it means no longer enduring unexplained symptoms.

Perimenopause, Premenopause, Menopause: Untangling the Terms

Menopause is a specific point: 12 consecutive months without periods. Perimenopause (often called "premenopause") is the long transition that precedes it, during which you still have periods but hormones begin to fluctuate. It is a normal stage of hormonal life, not a disease.

At What Age, and for How Long?

The first symptoms appear on average around age 47, but this varies greatly: some women experience them as early as their late thirties. Perimenopause lasts an average of 2 to 4 years, sometimes up to 8-10 years depending on the woman.

The First Signs That Should Alert You

Initially, it's primarily the drop in progesterone that is noticeable. The most frequent signs include:

• Irregular cycles — often the very first sign: periods closer together, further apart, lighter or heavier.
• Disturbed sleep, nocturnal awakenings.
• Hot flashes or night sweats (not always present at the beginning).
• Unusual fatigue.
• Mood swings, irritability, sometimes worsening premenstrual syndrome.
• "Brain fog" (difficulty concentrating, memory).
• A changing belly and a tendency towards abdominal weight gain.

None of these signs taken in isolation "prove" perimenopause — it's their combination, at a consistent age, that indicates it.

To Learn More About Each Symptom

Many of these signs overlap. If one of them dominates for you, we explore it in detail:

• Bloated belly in the evening → Bloated belly in the evening after 40
• Stress and abdominal fat → Cortisol and belly
• Difficult nights → Sleeping better during menopause
• Weight gain → Weight gain during menopause

How to Live Better With It

The diagnosis is primarily clinical: it's the combination of symptoms that matters; hormonal assays alone are not sufficient. Some concrete levers, valid for most symptoms:

• Keep a journal of your cycles and symptoms (a tracking app helps): useful for you and for your doctor.
• Exercise, particularly strength training, which preserves muscle and metabolism.
• Prioritize sleep and manage stress: two pillars that impact almost everything.
• A diet rich in protein, fiber, and vegetables.
• Evening support. In addition to a healthy lifestyle, the Aube Svelte evening regimen supports this moment of relaxation for women aged 40 and over.

When to Consult a Doctor

Consult if symptoms affect your quality of life, in case of very heavy or unusual bleeding, or if signs appear before age 40. Your doctor can rule out other causes (thyroid, etc.) and, depending on your profile, discuss appropriate solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Perimenopause or premenopause: which is the correct term?
We often say "premenopause" in everyday language; the exact medical term is "perimenopause." Both refer to the transition before periods stop.

Can one still get pregnant?
Yes, pregnancy is still possible as long as periods have not stopped for 12 months. Appropriate contraception can be discussed with your doctor.

How long does it last?
On average 2 to 4 years, sometimes much longer. It varies greatly from woman to woman.

How can one be sure it's perimenopause?
By the combination of symptoms and age, not by a simple blood test. A doctor makes the diagnosis by ruling out other causes.