If you’re a woman and have started to feel changes in your body — maybe your periods are off, your sleep is weird, or your moods are all over the place — you might be wondering: Is this Menopause?
The biggest myth is that these symptoms are Menopause. However, did you know there is a phase before Menopause called Perimenopause? Many women aren’t sure which is which, but knowing the difference can help you feel more in control of your health.
Let’s break down the differences!
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the time before Menopause. It’s when your body starts getting ready to stop having periods. During this stage, your hormone levels, especially estrogen and progesterone, begin to rise and fall in new ways. This can cause a lot of changes, both physical and emotional.
Perimenopause usually starts in your 40s, but it can begin earlier for some women. It can last anywhere from 2 to 10 years.
Common signs of Perimenopause include:
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Periods that are irregular (heavier, lighter, or skipped)
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Hot flashes or night sweats
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Trouble sleeping
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Mood swings
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Brain fog or forgetfulness
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Vaginal dryness
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Low sex drive
These changes can feel frustrating, but they’re a regular part of this phase.
What is Menopause?
Menopause is the day when your periods have completely stopped — for 12 months in a row. This means your ovaries are no longer releasing eggs, and your hormone levels have dropped significantly. The average age for Menopause is around 51, but it’s different for every woman.
Even though your periods are over, you might still feel some symptoms like:
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Hot flashes
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Night sweats
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Sleep problems
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Changes in mood
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Dry skin or hair thinning
Some women feel better after Menopause, while others may still deal with some symptoms.
So, What’s the Big Difference between Perimenopause and Menopause?
The biggest difference is where you are on the journey. If you’re still getting periods — even if they’re irregular — and you’re noticing changes in how you feel, you’re likely in Perimenopause. If your periods have been completely gone for a year or more, you’ve officially reached Menopause. Perimenopause is all about change and fluctuation, while Menopause is when your body has settled into its new normal with lower hormone levels and no period.
Why Knowing the Difference Matters
Understanding your stage helps you take better care of your body. It can guide your decisions about what to eat, how to exercise, whether to take supplements, and when to talk to a doctor. Below, we’ve offered some tips to help you support your body during this time.
Tips for Feeling Better During Perimenopause
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Balance your Blood Sugar: Regularly eating protein, fiber, and healthy fats can help stabilize energy and mood.
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Support your Hormones Naturally: Add foods like flaxseeds, leafy greens, and lentils, which are rich in phytoestrogens and nutrients.
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Move in a Way that Feels Good: Try strength training, walking, or gentle yoga to ease anxiety and support muscle and bone health.
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Prioritize Rest: Create a calming bedtime routine to improve sleep quality. Magnesium and herbal teas can also help.
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Track your Cycle: Even if it’s irregular, keeping track of symptoms can help you understand patterns and share info with your doctor.
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Consider Adaptogens: Herbs like Ashwagandha and maca may help your body handle stress and hormone shifts more smoothly.
Tips for Feeling Better During Postmenopause
While Menopause is technically only one day, you can begin to support your body in Postmenopause.
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Boost Bone and Heart health: Ensure you get enough calcium, vitamin D3 + K2, and omega-3s to protect long-term wellness.
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Stay Active: Low-impact exercise, like walking or swimming, supports joint health and boosts mood. Avoid sarcopenia (loss of muscle tissue) by staying active and including Creatine Monohydrate in your daily supplement routine!
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Stay Hydrated and Moisturized: Vaginal dryness and skin changes are common, so drink plenty of water and consider clean, supportive moisturizers.
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Keep your Brain Sharp: Challenge your mind with reading, puzzles, or learning something new to support memory and mental clarity. Adding a Magnesium supplement to your routine can also help support your cognitive function!
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Ask about Hormone Therapy: If symptoms are intense or affecting your quality of life, talk to your doctor about HRT or natural alternatives.
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Connect with Support: Talking with other women going through the same stage can be powerful — community really helps!
Take Your Power Back– You Can Find Relief From Your Perimenopause and Postmenopause Symptoms!
Perimenopause and Postmenopause are big life changes, but they don’t have to feel scary. With the proper support, this can be a time of strength, growth, and self-care. You’re not alone — and your body knows what to do!
Learn more about Perimenopause and Postmenopause from our Founder, Mary, on our social media!