What is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause, often called the "menopause transition," is the time before menopause when your hormones—especially estrogen—start fluctuating. This phase can begin in your mid-30s to late 40s and may last anywhere from a few months to several years. During this time, your periods might become irregular, and you may start noticing physical and emotional changes.

Common Symptoms of Perimenopause

Every woman experiences perimenopause differently, but here are some common symptoms:

• Irregular Periods: Cycles may be longer, shorter, heavier, or lighter.

• Hot Flashes & Night Sweats: Sudden warmth or sweating, especially at night.

• Mood Swings & Anxiety: Feeling more irritable, anxious, or emotionally sensitive.

• Sleep Issues: Trouble falling or staying asleep, often due to hormonal shifts or night sweats.

• Low Libido & Vaginal Dryness: A drop in estrogen can cause less interest in sex and discomfort during intimacy.

• Breast Tenderness & Weight Gain: Especially around the belly due to hormone changes.

• Brain Fog: Difficulty focusing or forgetfulness.

• Urinary Changes: Frequent urges or higher chances of UTIs.

What is Menopause?

Menopause is officially diagnosed when you've gone 12 months without a period. This usually happens between ages 45 and 55. By this time, your estrogen levels have dropped significantly, and your ovaries have stopped releasing eggs.

Symptoms of Menopause

Some menopause symptoms may continue from perimenopause, but they can become more intense or show up differently:

• More Intense Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

• Vaginal Dryness & Pain During Sex

• Bone Loss: Increased risk of osteoporosis due to less estrogen.

• Heart Health Concerns: A higher risk of heart disease as estrogen protects the heart.

• Cholesterol Imbalance: Rise in bad (LDL) cholesterol, drop in good (HDL).

• Fatigue & Energy Loss

• Dry Skin & Hair Thinning

Related Read: CBD for Menopause Support

How to Manage Perimenopause and Menopause Symptoms

Managing your symptoms doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Here are some practical lifestyle changes that can help:

✅ Eat Well

Include foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, healthy fats, and fiber to support your bones and hormones.

✅ Stay Active

Exercise regularly—especially weight-bearing exercises—to improve mood, reduce weight gain, and protect your bones.

✅ Cool Down

Dress in breathable layers and keep your space cool to reduce hot flashes and night sweats.

✅ Sleep Smart

Set a calming bedtime routine, limit screen time, reduce caffeine, and avoid heavy meals before bed.

✅ Practice Stress Relief

Yoga, deep breathing, meditation, or even a walk in nature can help with mood swings and anxiety.

✅ Consider Natural Support Like CBD

Natural wellness products like Hempbuti’s premium CBD oil are being explored by Indian women to support hormone balance, ease discomfort, and improve overall well-being. CBD is not a cure but may help with sleep, stress, and discomfort when used under expert guidance.

When to See a Doctor

While many symptoms are a normal part of the transition, some should be checked by a healthcare provider:

• Heavy or prolonged bleeding

• Bleeding after sex

• Spotting between periods

• Severe mood swings or depression

Getting a professional evaluation can help rule out other conditions and ensure you receive the right support.