What Is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transition phase leading up to menopause.

It can begin several years before your periods stop, often in your mid-40s, though it can start earlier.

During perimenopause, your ovaries gradually produce less oestrogen, which can cause a range of symptoms.

Periods may become irregular - heavier, lighter, more frequent or further apart.

Many women experience symptoms such as hot flushes, sleep changes, mood shifts and changes to their cycle during this time.

Perimenopause ends when you have gone 12 consecutive months without a period - at which point you have reached menopause.