Menopause and perimenopause: What it is
Menopause and perimenopause are a natural part of life. This happens when your periods change and eventually stop due to lower hormone levels. It usually affects women between 45 and 55 but it can happen earlier.
What happens:
- perimenopause happens when your periods become irregular and menopause is when your periods stop altogether
- menopause is caused by a fall in hormone levels and usually affects women between the ages of 45 and 55, but it can happen earlier
- menopause and perimenopause can affect anyone who has periods
- menopause itself is defined as not having a period for 12 months and you're not using hormonal contraception
- there's no routine test for perimenopause and menopause. A doctor may diagnose it based on your age and symptoms
- early menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency can happen before the age of 45. It can be caused by surgery to remove the ovaries (oophorectomy). Sometimes the reason is unknown
Menopause and perimenopause guidance websites
NHS: Menopause and perimenopause
Mind: Support for everyday living with menopause