This article is for educational and general wellness purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you are noticing changes in your body or have questions about your health, please consult a knowledgeable healthcare provider.

Perimenopause, the transitional phase before menopause, brings significant hormonal and reproductive changes that impact both physical and emotional health. According to research published in the Journal of Women's Health, around 90% of women seek medical advice for menopausal changes, with hot flashes being the most well-known. While most women experience them for 1–2 years, about one-third have moderate to severe hot flashes, and some may notice them for a decade or longer.

Sleep disturbances become more common during this transition, influenced both by hormonal shifts and the natural process of aging. Many women also notice changes in mood and emotional well-being during the later stages of perimenopause, particularly as menstrual cycles become more irregular. These experiences often interact — women who notice low mood frequently report more disruptive hot flashes and disrupted sleep as well.

Vaginal changes, including dryness and discomfort during intimacy, are another common part of the perimenopause picture, affecting roughly one-third of women in this stage. Unlike hot flashes or mood changes, vaginal dryness and discomfort may linger over time without ongoing care and attention. Many women explore a range of approaches — from wellness routines to conversations with their healthcare provider — to support their comfort during this transition.

View the study: https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/jwh.2015.5556