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What’s the Difference Between Perimenopause and Menopause?

Writer's picture: Elisabetta FernandezElisabetta Fernandez

Navigating midlife can feel like stepping into uncharted territory—especially when you start hearing terms like perimenopause and menopause.


Many times, I get asked, "Do you help women in perimenopause as well?" This question really made me pause and reflect because, in truth, I so wish more women would seek help earlier in perimenopause. While perimenopause and menopause are often used interchangeably, they describe two distinct phases of a woman’s life. Understanding the difference—and addressing these changes early—can empower you to better navigate this transition, take control of your health, and set the foundation for a smoother, healthier journey through menopause and beyond.


What Is Perimenopause?


Perimenopause means "around menopause." It’s the transitional phase leading up to menopause, during which your body begins to shift hormonally. For most women, this phase starts in their 40s, but it can begin as early as the mid-30s for some.

During perimenopause, your ovaries gradually produce less estrogen, and hormone levels can fluctuate significantly. These fluctuations can lead to symptoms such as:


  • Irregular periods (shorter, longer, or skipped cycles)

  • Hot flashes and night sweats

  • Mood swings or increased anxiety

  • Sleep disturbances

  • Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen

  • Changes in libido

  • Vaginal dryness


Perimenopause can last anywhere from a few months to over 10 years, depending on your body. It officially ends once you’ve gone 12 consecutive months without a period, marking the transition to menopause.


What Is Menopause?


Menopause is a single milestone: it’s the moment when you’ve gone 12 months without a menstrual period. After that, you are considered to be in the postmenopausal stage of life.

Menopause marks the end of your reproductive years as your ovaries have stopped releasing eggs and producing most of their estrogen. While menopause itself doesn’t cause symptoms, the hormonal changes leading up to it—and continuing after—can result in:


  • Hot flashes

  • Sleep problems

  • Joint pain or stiffness

  • Vaginal and urinary issues (like dryness or infections)

  • Cognitive changes, such as "brain fog"


Key Differences Between Perimenopause and Menopause

Here’s a simple breakdown to clarify the two phases:

Perimenopause

Menopause

Transitional phase leading up to menopause

The point reached after 12 months without a period

Hormones fluctuate widely

Hormones stabilize at lower levels

Symptoms like irregular periods are common

Periods have completely stopped

Can last several years

Is a single milestone, followed by postmenopause

Don’t Wait to Seek Help


Many women wait until symptoms become overwhelming before seeking help, but the truth is, addressing these changes early can make all the difference. Taking a proactive approach during perimenopause—when your body first starts signaling changes—can significantly smooth the transition into menopause and improve your long-term health.


Focusing on critical aspects like bone health, heart health, overall vitality, and weight management during perimenopause can set the foundation for a healthier menopause and postmenopausal life. By starting these practices early, you can avoid hitting the wall of frustrating symptoms like debilitating hot flashes, extreme fatigue, mood swings, and stubborn weight gain. Managing weight early on can help balance hormones and improve your overall sense of well-being, making your transition to menopause much easier.


Why Early Action Matters


Understanding the importance of early action during perimenopause can help you navigate this phase with greater ease and confidence. While menopause itself may seem like the defining moment, how you take care of yourself during perimenopause will impact your health for years to come.


One common concern many women face is stubborn weight gain around the abdomen, hips, and thighs. This can be linked to hormonal changes, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent struggle. By addressing your diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits early in perimenopause, you can help prevent weight gain from becoming a persistent issue during menopause. The earlier you start, the easier it will be to manage, and the better you’ll feel throughout the entire process.


How I Can Help


As a certified health and wellness coach specializing in perimenopause and menopause, I’m here to help you navigate this transition with confidence. Whether you’re looking for relief from symptoms, strategies for improving your energy, or ways to feel more like yourself again, we’ll work together to create a plan tailored to your needs.

This phase of life doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it can be an opportunity to reconnect with yourself and step into your healthiest, most vibrant self.


Your Next Steps


Early intervention and awareness are key to navigating this transition with confidence. I’ve created a helpful guide, Symptom Checklist and Questions for Your Doctor, to empower you with the information you need for productive conversations with your healthcare provider.


Download it now to better understand your symptoms and start making proactive choices for your health and well-being. https://www.spiritedwarriorhealthcoach.com/product-page/symptom-checklist-and-questions-for-your-doctor


Unsure whether you’re in perimenopause or menopause, or if you want guidance on how to thrive during this phase, let’s connect!


Click the "Book Now" for a free 30-minute consultation, and let’s start creating your path to better health and vitality.


This is your time to reconnect with yourself, embrace new possibilities, and thrive as you move through this powerful transition with confidence and vitality.

Make it count!


Follow along for more tips on navigating midlife health and wellness:

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