How long can perimenopause last?
Well, how long is a piece of string? The time perimenopause lasts is different for everyone, but the average time is about four years. So, it could be over in a season, or it could take a decade.
You might not have noticed it starting. Some lucky people don't feel any different, or you might be feeling hormonal for ages.
Looking back, I can definitely say I was having lots of symptoms in my mid-40s, 10 years ago, that were probably the start of the transition. At the time, I just put it down to being busy and stressed and having joint trouble, and I didn't have symptoms all the time.
Perimenopause is changeable. It can come and go. And the grand finale, menopause, is one calendar year from the day of your last period. But you'll only know about that afterwards.
There are some classic low-oestrogen symptoms to look out for, like hot flushes. But everyone's different, and there are so many symptoms you can get.
It can help to write down a log every day to see if there's a pattern of reoccurring symptoms that will tell you if you're in the early, the middle, or the late stages of perimenopause. At late stage, usually the symptoms are things like hot flushes and vaginal dryness and mood changes and feeling flat, low energy.
What can help?
Phytoestrogens might really take the edge off here. These are plant compounds that act like oestrogen in the body, which can be found in certain foods, and also taken as a supplement. I have also found the mineral magnesium to be a really good all-arounder for all the stages. Regardless of where you're at, because change is demanding, prioritise the support of your energy levels and your frazzled nervous system.
Other topics that you may find helpful:
Signs you're in the late stages of perimenopause
Signs your nervous system is struggling & how to support it better during menopause
5 oestrogen-rich foods for menopause
10 self-care tips for perimenopause, menopause & post-menopause
