What is the difference between perimenopause and menopause?
- Naziana Searle
- May 27
- 3 min read

You used to breeze through the day. Now, you're tired by lunchtime, and your period? It's become unpredictable. Is this just stress... or something more?
What is the first symptom of perimenopause?
The first sign is often a change in your menstrual cycle. Your period might come earlier or later than usual. You might skip a month, then have a heavier bleed the next.
Perimenopause is the stage before menopause. It usually begins in your 40s, but can start earlier. It's a slow, natural shift in your hormones as your ovaries begin to produce less oestrogen.
Two stages of perimenopause
Early transition – periods are still fairly regular, but timing or flow might change
Late transition – longer gaps between periods, sometimes no periods for many months
These changes can be subtle at first. Many women don’t realise they’re in perimenopause until they look back and connect the dots.
The path towards menopause

Perimenopause can last several years, and there is a gradual transition towards menopause. Menopause is confirmed once you’ve had no periods for 12 months in a row.
Could this be the first sign your are in perimenopause?
Other than having irregular periods, the classic symptom of menopause is the hot flush. However, I have found that in my clinic a large majority of perimenopausal and menopausal women have anxiety.
Some physical signs (although there are many others):
hot flushes / night sweats
sleep disorders
hair loss or thinning
headaches
vaginal dryness
digestive issues including nausea, constipation, and bloating
Some emotional signs (although there may be others):
worsening PMT (pre-menstrual tension)
fatigue
memory problems
poor concentration
mood swings
depression
unexplained anxiety
Real Stories, Real Relief
Many women feel confused and alone during perimenopause, but the right support makes a difference. One of my clients recently shared:
“I’m feeling so much better under the wonderful care. My perimenopausal symptoms are really lessening after just the first month. I really look forward to more improvements in the coming months."
Her experience is not uncommon. With the right guidance, symptoms can ease and confidence can return.
How will you know when you have reached menopause?
You will know when you have reached menopause as you would not have had a period for 12 months.
Once you have reached this stage, the hormones, Oestrogen, Progesterone, and Testoterone are much lower and they tend to be more stable than during perimenopause.
You may either have very few symptoms post-menopausally, or you may continue to experience some symptoms. During this stage menopausal symptoms usually ease off, and the frequency and intensity lessen.
Perimenopause and Menopause: A Personalised, Natural Health Approach
Whether you're just beginning perimenopause or are fully in menopause, knowing the difference between the two stages can help you feel more empowered. Through a homeopathic and natural health perspective, I provide care that’s tailored to you.
Looking for natural ways to ease your symptoms?
Download my 'Menopause Relief Naturally' guide. and discover how lifestyle changes and homeopathy is a good option for natural menopause relief.
Is homeopathy for you?
Homeopathy is used all over the world for so many health issues, including menopausal issues. Whether you have a big health issue that is stopping you from getting on with your life, or niggly health 'annoyances', feel free to contact me if you think I may be able to help.
Next steps
If you would like to speak to me about how homeopathy may help with menopausal issues I offer a free 20 minute discovery call. During this call, we talk about you, your symptoms, and how they are affecting you. I will ask you some questions to see if homeopathy may be beneficial to you.
I am always happy to hear from you.
Naziana x
