How to stop perimenopause

Perimenopause is the stage when ovarian hormone patterns become less predictable before menopause. Periods may become irregular, and symptoms can include hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disruption, vaginal dryness, lower sexual desire, and mood changes. Symptoms vary and may change over time.

A missed period does not by itself confirm perimenopause. Pregnancy can still occur during this transition, so mention contraception and pregnancy possibility during an assessment. A clinician may consider your age, cycle pattern, symptoms, medicines, and medical history.

Keep a record of bleeding, flushes, sleep, mood, and triggers such as heat, alcohol, or stress. Wear breathable layers, keep the bedroom cool, and use a regular sleep routine if temperature symptoms disturb rest. Movement, balanced meals, and reducing smoking can support general health.

Ask about hormone therapy if symptoms are troublesome and you are medically suitable. Non-hormone medicines, talking therapies, vaginal treatments, or contraception may be useful for particular symptoms. Treatment should match your health history and priorities rather than a single standard plan.

Book an appointment if symptoms interfere with work, sleep, relationships, or daily activities, or if you are unsure whether the change is perimenopause. Seek assessment for very heavy bleeding, bleeding after sex, severe pelvic pain, or bleeding after menopause.

Seek urgent help for chest pain, severe breathlessness, one-sided weakness, sudden severe headache, or a painful swollen leg. These symptoms need prompt evaluation regardless of menopausal symptoms.

Which symptoms fit perimenopause, and what else should be ruled out? Would hormone or non-hormone treatment suit my history? How should contraception be managed? What should I do if my bleeding becomes heavy or my mood worsens?