Perimenopause vs Menopause: What's the Difference?
Perimenopause is the transition phase before menopause, lasting 4-10 years, when hormones fluctuate and periods become irregular. Menopause is the point when you have gone 12 consecutive months without a period. After menopause, you are postmenopausal.
Key differences
They are stages of the same transition, not separate conditions.
- Perimenopause: hormones swing wildly, periods are irregular, symptoms vary month to month.
- Menopause: defined as 12 months with no period, average age 51.
- Postmenopause: the years after menopause when symptoms often ease.
- You can only confirm menopause in hindsight, once 12 months have passed.
Track how you feel and spot the pattern
PhaseBloom logs your symptoms and mood against your cycle in seconds a day, so you can see which days hit hardest and prepare before they arrive.
Track how you feel and spot the pattern
PhaseBloom logs your symptoms and mood against your cycle in seconds a day, so you can see which days hit hardest and prepare before they arrive.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I'm in perimenopause or menopause?
If you are still having periods, even irregular ones, you are in perimenopause. Menopause is confirmed only after 12 consecutive months without a period.
Can you get pregnant in perimenopause?
Yes. Ovulation can still occur unpredictably until you reach menopause. Contraception is needed until 12 months without a period.