Irregular Periods
Your menstrual cycle may become longer, shorter, or skipped altogether.
Hot Flashes
Sudden feelings of intense heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing.
Night Sweats
Sweating excessively during the night, often disrupting sleep.
Mood Swings
Sudden shifts in mood, including irritability, anxiety, or sadness.
Fatigue
A persistent feeling of tiredness, even after adequate rest.
Difficulty Sleeping (Insomnia)
Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, sometimes linked to night sweats.
Decreased Libido
A reduction in sexual desire or interest.
Vaginal Dryness
Reduced moisture in the vaginal area, which can cause discomfort during sex.
Urinary Incontinence
Increased frequency or urgency of urination, or slight leaking when sneezing or laughing.
Breast Tenderness
Soreness or swelling of the breasts, similar to premenstrual symptoms.
Weight Gain
Increased weight, especially around the abdomen, due to hormonal changes and a slower metabolism.
Thinning Hair or Hair Loss
Hair may become thinner, or you may notice more hair shedding than usual.
Dry Skin
Skin may lose elasticity and become drier, leading to itchiness or irritation.
Changes in Hair Texture
Hair may become more brittle or dry.
Headaches
Increased frequency or intensity of headaches, often linked to hormonal fluctuations.
Memory Problems (“Brain Fog”)
Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, or trouble focusing.
Bloating
An increase in abdominal bloating, similar to premenstrual symptoms.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness
Sudden feelings of dizziness or imbalance.
Heart Palpitations
A noticeable increase in your heart rate or irregular heartbeat without exertion.
Joint and Muscle Pain
Aching joints or muscles, sometimes accompanied by stiffness.
Changes in Body Odor
Your body odor may change due to fluctuations in hormones and sweat production.
Increased PMS Symptoms
Pre-existing premenstrual symptoms may become more intense or frequent.
Anxiety or Depression
Feelings of anxiety, sadness, or a sense of unease may become more prominent.
Sensitivity to Temperature
Feeling more sensitive to heat or cold than before.
Gum Problems
Bleeding gums or increased sensitivity in the mouth, often linked to hormonal changes.
These symptoms can vary greatly in intensity and duration for each woman, but they are all common indicators that perimenopause may be beginning.
