Perimenopause · Starting age
How early can perimenopause start?
By Patrick LeachPublisher: HerDoc
Perimenopause usually begins in your 40s, but it can start earlier. If you're noticing changes in your periods, sleep, mood or concentration, it's worth understanding what might be happening.
Perhaps you're sleeping differently, feeling unusually anxious or finding it harder to concentrate. Your periods might have changed or still seem fairly predictable.
Could it be perimenopause? Possibly. But these symptoms can have other causes, so understanding what's changed is the first step.
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Could perimenopause start at 35?
Perimenopause most commonly begins in your 40s, although some women experience changes earlier.
Hormonal changes can affect your periods, sleep, mood and physical wellbeing. However, experiencing these symptoms in your 30s doesn't necessarily mean you're entering perimenopause.
Thyroid conditions, iron deficiency, stress and other health concerns can produce similar symptoms.
Do my periods have to stop first?
No. Perimenopause is the transition around menopause, and periods can continue throughout this time.
You might notice your cycles becoming shorter, longer, heavier, lighter or less predictable.
Menopause is confirmed after 12 consecutive months without a period, when there is no other medical explanation.
You don't need to wait until your periods stop to discuss symptoms with your GP.
Should I have hormone tests?
Hormone levels fluctuate during perimenopause, so a single blood test may not provide a clear answer.
For women aged 45 and over, perimenopause is usually assessed through symptoms, menstrual history and medical history rather than routine hormone testing.
If you're under 45 and your periods become irregular or stop, it's important to arrange a medical assessment. Your GP may recommend hormone tests and investigations for other possible causes.
Is perimenopause the same as early menopause?
No. Experiencing symptoms in your 30s doesn't necessarily mean menopause is approaching.
Early menopause occurs before age 45. Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) involves reduced ovarian function before age 40 and requires specific medical assessment.
These conditions can affect fertility and longer-term health, including bone health, so early investigation matters.
What should I do if I'm concerned?
You don't need to know whether perimenopause is the cause before seeking advice.
Make a note of any changes in your periods, sleep, mood, concentration or physical wellbeing, particularly if they're affecting everyday life.
Your GP can help investigate possible causes and discuss appropriate next steps.
Period changes can occur during perimenopause, but unusually heavy or prolonged bleeding, bleeding between periods or after sex should be checked by a doctor. Any vaginal bleeding after 12 months without periods also needs assessment. Don’t assume these changes are due to perimenopause.
Pregnancy is still possible during perimenopause, so contraception may also be important.
Talk to a HerDoc GP
HerDoc is preparing to launch and is not taking appointments yet. Once appointments are available, a HerDoc GP will be able to discuss your symptoms, consider possible causes and arrange blood tests or referrals when clinically appropriate.