At what age does perimenopause usually start?

Perimenopause starts already when you are in your 40s, when estrogen production in the ovaries starts to decrease. But many women typically experience their first menopausal symptoms from age 45. Perimenopause means a woman has started on her journey toward menopause and this menopausal phase can last for several years. How you experience the symptoms can vary a lot from woman to woman. Some women have few to no symptoms during perimenopause, while others experience significant changes.

With perimenopause come regular changes in menstrual blood flows and the experience of menopausal symptoms. Often, perimenopause is identified by changes in menstruation, such as heavier blood flows and/or shorter periods between menstrual cycles. Some women notice a change in their state of mind and mood swings or feeling more sensitive, for example becoming more easily stressed or worried. The physical changes the body undergoes during menopause often make you feel more tired and lacking in energy. It is also common to experience problems sleeping either periodically or long term.