Perimenopause and menopause are two different stages in a woman's reproductive journey, each characterized by specific hormonal and physiological changes.
Perimenopause is the process in which your body makes a gradual and natural transition to menopause. It usually starts a few years before menopause and can last for varying durations. Menopause marks the official end of your reproductive years.
You may enter perimenopause in your late 40s, but sometimes it may start in the 30s or early 40s as well. Although the average age for menopause is around 51, it can also occur earlier or later.
Both perimenopause and menopause involve hormonal fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels and symptoms tied to changes. However, after menopause, these hormone levels consistently remain low.
During perimenopause, you may experience irregular menstrual cycles along with other symptoms. On the other hand, after menopause, your menstrual cycle stops completely. Menopause is officially reached when a woman goes without a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months.
The symptoms you go through during perimenopause may persist into menopause, but their intensity and frequency are likely to diminish. Additionally, you may encounter new symptoms related to the prolonged effects of low estrogen, such as a risk of bone density loss.