Perimenopause vs. Menopause: Understanding the Stages & What to Expect
- Shannon Wade
- Mar 13
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 14
Menopause isn’t something that happens overnight—it’s a journey. Many women are surprised to learn that perimenopause (the stage before menopause) can start as early as their late 30s or early 40s, often bringing unexpected symptoms long before their periods actually stop.
If you’ve been feeling off—experiencing mood swings, sleep disturbances, irregular periods, or stubborn weight gain—you may be in perimenopause. But how is this different from menopause? And how do you know when you’ve officially crossed over?
Let’s break it all down so you can understand your body, take control of your hormones, and navigate this transition with confidence.
My Perimenopause Story: When Everything Changed
I didn’t just wake up one day and realize I was in perimenopause. It crept up on me slowly, disguising itself as extreme fatigue, mood swings, and weight gain that wouldn’t budge no matter what I did. The worst part? The heavy periods that resembled a murder scene—so intense I could barely leave the house some days. I lived in fear of leaking through my clothes, and my energy was completely drained from the constant blood loss.
At 44, I finally made the difficult decision to have a hysterectomy—thinking that this would be the solution to my struggles. While it helped eliminate the horror-show periods, it did nothing to stop the severe hot flashes and night sweats that hit me like a freight train.
I remember waking up drenched in sweat night after night, peeling the covers off only to get freezing cold moments later. I was constantly irritable, snapping at my family over the smallest things, and felt like a stranger in my own body. No one had prepared me for this—least of all my doctors, who just shrugged it off as “part of aging.”
The weight gain was the final straw. No matter how clean I ate or how much I exercised, I watched my waistline expand overnight, my midsection growing softer and thicker, despite doing everything “right.” My energy tanked, my motivation disappeared, and I felt completely out of control of my body.
It wasn’t until I stopped chasing diets and started focusing on hormone balance that I was able to turn things around. That’s why I’m so passionate about helping women understand what’s actually happening during perimenopause and menopause—because we deserve better answers than just “it’s part of aging.”
What is Perimenopause?
Think of perimenopause as “menopause in training”—your body is shifting hormonally, but you’re not officially in menopause yet. This phase can last anywhere from 2 to 10 years.
Signs You’re in Perimenopause
Irregular periods – Your cycle may get shorter, longer, heavier, or lighter—there’s no set pattern.
Hot flashes and night sweats – You may start experiencing unpredictable temperature shifts.
Mood swings and anxiety – Hormonal fluctuations can lead to irritability, anxiety, and even mild depression.
Sleep issues – Trouble falling asleep? Waking up drenched in sweat? Perimenopause can disrupt your melatonin and cortisol balance.
Brain fog – Struggling to focus? Forgetting things? Declining estrogen levels can impact memory and cognition.
Weight gain, especially around the midsection – Your metabolism slows down, and insulin resistance can make weight loss harder.
Changes in libido – Some women experience a drop in sex drive, while others may feel a surge due to fluctuating testosterone levels.
Vaginal dryness and bladder changes – Lower estrogen levels can lead to discomfort during sex and more frequent UTIs.
What is Menopause?
Menopause is officially diagnosed after you have gone 12 consecutive months without a period. At this point, your ovaries have significantly reduced estrogen and progesterone production, and your reproductive years are behind you.
Signs You’ve Entered Menopause
No more periods – If you’ve hit the 12-month mark, menopause has officially begun.
Symptoms may stabilize (or shift) – While hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances can still happen, some women find they lessen over time.
Higher risk for bone loss and heart disease – With lower estrogen, you may experience bone density loss (osteopenia/osteoporosis) and an increased risk of cardiovascular issues.
Metabolism slows even more – Losing weight may feel more difficult than ever, but understanding how to support your hormones naturally can make a big difference.
Embracing the new you – Many women rediscover themselves during menopause, focusing on wellness, career, relationships, and self-care.
Support Your Hormones Naturally with the Happy Hormone Pack
Balancing your hormones doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The Happy Hormone Pack is a science-backed, all-natural supplement system designed to help support hormone balance, mood stability, and overall well-being during perimenopause and menopause.
What’s Inside the Happy Hormone Pack
GBX Fit – Supports a healthy metabolism and weight management by improving gut-brain axis function.
GBX Burn – Helps optimize fat-burning, reduce cravings, and support healthy energy levels.
MentaSync – A unique blend of probiotics and nutrients that improve the gut-brain connection, reducing stress and supporting mental clarity.
GBX Omega – A high-quality omega-3 supplement that helps reduce inflammation, support brain function, and improve hormone balance.
Benefits of the Happy Hormone Pack
Supports mood balance and stress resilience
Helps reduce cravings and improve metabolism
Boosts brain clarity and cognitive function
Provides essential nutrients for hormone health
For women struggling with brain fog, fatigue, mood swings, and stubborn weight gain, the Happy Hormone Pack offers a natural way to rebalance your body and feel your best again.
Learn more about how the Happy Hormone Pack can help support your hormonal balance here: Click here to explore the Happy Hormone Pack
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Transition
Menopause isn’t an ending—it’s a new beginning. While the symptoms can be challenging, understanding what’s happening in your body and taking proactive steps can make all the difference.
Perimenopause = The transition (irregular periods, hormonal fluctuations, unpredictable symptoms).
Menopause = The milestone (no periods for 12 months, lower estrogen, and a new phase of life).
Postmenopause = Life after menopause (stabilized hormones, but long-term health focus is key).
With the right strategies, mindset, and support, you can feel vibrant, strong, and in control at every stage.
If you’re looking for personalized coaching and resources to navigate this journey, check out my coaching programs and courses designed to help women thrive in midlife and beyond.
Let’s navigate this journey together. You deserve to feel your best.
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