If you're between the ages of 35 and 60 and wondering what the heck is happening to your body, you’re not alone. One minute your cycle is regular, the next it’s a mystery. You’re hot, moody, tired, wired, bloated, and forgetful—all before lunch. So, is it perimenopause? Menopause? Or something else entirely?
Let’s break it down so you can finally stop guessing and start getting the support you need.
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause means “around menopause.” It’s the transitional time leading up to menopause when your hormones—especially estrogen and progesterone—start to fluctuate wildly. It can begin as early as your mid-30s, but most women notice changes in their 40s.
Key signs of perimenopause include:
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Irregular periods (longer, shorter, heavier, lighter)
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Mood swings or irritability
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Sleep problems
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Hot flashes or night sweats
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Brain fog or memory lapses
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Decreased libido
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Increased anxiety or depression
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Weight gain (especially around the middle)
This phase can last anywhere from 2 to 10 years. Yes, really.
What is Menopause?
Menopause is officially defined as 12 consecutive months without a period—no spotting, no bleeding, no exceptions. Once you hit that milestone, you are in menopause.
After that, you enter the postmenopausal phase, which lasts for the rest of your life. While the hormonal chaos of perimenopause slows down, symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and bone density loss can still be issues.
Menopause is not just a moment—it’s a new stage of life.
So Why Does It Matter?
Because knowing where you are in the journey helps you make better health decisions. For example:
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Perimenopause symptoms are often mistaken for anxiety, depression, thyroid issues, or just “being busy.”
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Menopause brings new risks like heart disease, osteoporosis, and changes in metabolism.
Understanding the difference means you can seek support sooner, not just when things feel unbearable.
What Can You Do?
Whether you’re in perimenopause or menopause, you don’t have to tough it out. You deserve solutions. You deserve support. That’s why we created MidVive—to help women like you feel like themselves again.
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Track your symptoms
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Nourish your body with targeted supplements
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Get educated with real, honest info
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Join a community of women walking the same path
You’re not broken. You’re in transition. And MidVive is here for you every step of the way.