What is perimenopause?

What perimenopause brings

It usually starts in your mid-40s, though it can begin as early as your mid-30s, and lasts about four years on average, sometimes up to eight.

Periods may become irregular, heavier, lighter or skipped, and you may notice:

• hot flushes and night sweats
• poor sleep
• mood changes
• low libido
• vaginal dryness

Falling oestrogen also starts to speed up bone loss and raise heart risk, so this is the time to build habits that protect you for decades.

What helps through perimenopause

Eat calcium-rich foods daily, such as dahi, paneer, ragi, til and leafy greens like methi, and keep protein in every meal to protect your muscle. Make room for strength training and walking.

Day to day:

• Limit alcohol and caffeine.
• Keep your bedroom cool and dress in layers.
• Find a way to manage stress that suits you.
• Keep a regular sleep routine.

If periods become very heavy or symptoms disrupt your life, see your doctor.

Is there a test for perimenopause?

There's no single test for perimenopause. Doctors mostly go by your age and how your periods and symptoms are changing, and an oestrogen test is sometimes used to help.