What are the symptoms of perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transition before menopause, when ovarian hormone patterns become less predictable. Periods may arrive earlier or later, last longer or shorter, or vary in flow. Hot flushes and night sweats can disturb sleep, while tiredness may make concentration and mood harder to manage. Vaginal dryness or discomfort with sex and a reduced interest in sex can also occur.

Symptoms do not follow one fixed pattern. Some people notice only cycle changes; others experience several symptoms together. Similar changes can result from pregnancy, thyroid conditions, anaemia, medicines or stress, so a new or troubling pattern deserves an appropriate assessment.

Track bleeding, flushes, sleep, mood and any triggers for a few weeks. Regular movement, breathable layers, a cool bedroom and steady sleep routines may ease day-to-day disruption. Discuss treatment if symptoms affect work, relationships or rest. Non-hormonal menopause treatment may be suitable for some people, depending on medical history and the symptom being treated.

Arrange medical advice for very heavy bleeding, bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods, or bleeding after twelve months without a period. Seek urgent help for soaking bleeding with dizziness, fainting, severe pain, chest symptoms or severe breathlessness. A clinician can also assess persistent low mood or thoughts of self-harm urgently.

Ask whether your pattern fits perimenopause, whether another condition should be checked, and which options are appropriate for your symptoms, health history and contraceptive needs.