How long does perimenopause last?

Perimenopause is the stage when hormone production becomes less predictable before menopause. Periods may arrive earlier, later, become lighter or heavier, or occasionally be missed. Hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disruption, vaginal changes and mood symptoms can appear, fade or return at different points. The transition is considered complete after twelve months have passed without a menstrual period. A late or missed period alone cannot confirm perimenopause because pregnancy, stress, illness, changes in weight and other health conditions can also alter cycles.

Record bleeding dates, flow changes, hot flashes, sleep, mood and medicines. This gives a clinician a clearer picture than trying to remember separate episodes. Support regular sleep, dress in layers if you feel overheated, and seek help for symptoms affecting work, relationships or activity. Treatment can target particular problems rather than the whole transition; choices depend on symptoms, age, medical history and personal preferences. Continue contraception if pregnancy is possible until menopause has been confirmed by the appropriate clinical history.

Contact a clinician for bleeding that is very heavy, lasts unusually long, happens between periods or occurs after sex. Seek urgent care for severe pain, fainting, marked weakness or bleeding that makes you feel unwell. Arrange an appointment when symptoms are difficult to manage, start unexpectedly, or may reflect pregnancy, thyroid disease, anaemia or another condition.

Ask how your cycle pattern fits the menopause transition, whether you need pregnancy testing or other checks, and which options could address your most disruptive symptoms. Ask when contraception can be stopped safely.