If you’ve noticed changes in your cycle, energy, or mood, you might be wondering—is this menopause? For many women, the answer is not yet. What you may be experiencing is perimenopause, the transitional stage before menopause officially begins.
Understanding the difference between these two stages is key to managing symptoms and finding the right treatment plan.
What Is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause can begin as early as age 35 for some women, though the average onset is in the early 40s (Mayo Clinic, 2023). It’s the time when your body starts producing less estrogen and progesterone, leading to irregular cycles and a variety of symptoms.
Common Perimenopause Symptoms:
Irregular periods or skipped cycles
Hot flashes and night sweats
Mood swings, anxiety, or irritability
Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
Sleep disruptions
Weight changes
Vaginal dryness or discomfort
What Is Menopause?
Menopause is officially diagnosed after you’ve gone 12 consecutive months without a period. The average age for menopause in the U.S. is 51 (National Institute on Aging, 2021).
Common Menopause Symptoms:
Hot flashes and night sweats
Vaginal dryness and painful intercourse
Decreased libido
Bone density loss and joint pain
Mood changes and fatigue
Why the Distinction Matters
While both stages are driven by hormone fluctuations, perimenopause is unpredictable, while menopause is a more stable decline. This matters because treatment approaches often differ.
For example, some women may benefit from hormone replacement therapy (HRT) earlier in perimenopause to stabilize fluctuations, while others find relief from lifestyle strategies like stress management, nutrition, and exercise.
Treatment Options at Island Wellness Clinic
Nicole and the team at Island Wellness Clinic specialize in personalized care for women navigating perimenopause and menopause. Services include:
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Restores balance, eases symptoms, and supports long-term health.
Nutritional Counseling: Supporting energy, gut health, and hormone balance.
Weight Management: Evidence-based strategies tailored to your changing metabolism.
Stress & Sleep Support: Practical tools for emotional and physical well-being.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re 35 and starting to notice changes or already in menopause, you don’t have to figure this out alone. At Island Wellness Clinic, we offer virtual appointments across Florida to guide you through every stage with compassion and expertise.
👉 Book your consultation today and take back control of your health.
References
Mayo Clinic. (2023). Perimenopause: Symptoms & causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/perimenopause/symptoms-causes/syc-20354666
National Institute on Aging. (2021). What is menopause? https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/menopause