Think of perimenopause as the "transition" and menopause as the "destination." Perimenopause is the time when your hormones start fluctuating and symptoms begin, but you are still having periods. Menopause is officially reached when you haven’t had a period for 12 consecutive months. After that day, you are considered postmenopausal.

Yes, it is possible. While the average age of menopause is 51, symptoms of perimenopause often start around age 45. However, for some women, it happens earlier. If menopause occurs under age 45, it’s considered an early menopause. If you notice changes in your cycle or mood, it’s worth tracking them and chatting with your doctor.

For most women over 45, a diagnosis is usually based on your symptoms and cycle changes rather than a test. However, if you are younger or if the diagnosis is unclear, your doctor might perform a blood test to measure Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) levels. High FSH levels often indicate that your ovaries are producing less estrogen.

Just like puberty, your body is going through a major hormonal shift. Your ovaries are stopping egg production, causing levels of estrogen and progesterone to fall and fluctuate. These fluctuations are responsible for the mood swings, skin changes, and body shifts that feel eerily similar to your teenage years.