Understanding Perimenopause: What Every Woman Should Know
As women approach midlife, they may begin to notice changes in their bodies that can feel confusing or even concerning. One such phase, often misunderstood and underdiagnosed, is perimenopause—the transitional period leading up to menopause. What Is Perimenopause? Perimenopause refers to the time when a woman's ovaries gradually begin to produce less estrogen, one of the key hormones regulating the menstrual cycle. This hormonal shift typically begins in a woman's 40s, although some may notice symptoms as early as their 30s. The entire transition can last anywhere from four to seven years, ultimately culminating in menopause—defined as the point when menstruation has ceased for 12 consecutive months.