Am I perimenopausal? What are the early signals of menopause?

Most women experience perimenopausal symptoms in their 30s and 40s.  The most common symptoms such as fluctuating menstrual cycles can mean that your reproductive system is slowing down.  Other symptoms include changes in the amount of menstrual flow, longer or shorter times in between periods, and irregular flow. 

Physical symptoms in other parts of your body may include lumpy or tender breasts, water retention and bloating, sleep difficulties, concentration problems, fuzzy or unclear thinking, anxiety, depression, mood swings, hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, or unexplained weight gain.  Menopause and perimenopause are different for all women.  Some women may have several of the above symptoms while others may have none (besides not having their period).  In addition, symptoms may last for weeks, months, or years.  Since symptoms may appear in a woman as early as her 30s and the average age of menopause is 51, symptoms of perimenopause can last a long time.


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