Reviewed By Blake Gilliam, CRNP
Reading Time: 5 minutes
Perimenopause is the gradual transition leading up to menopause, a time when hormones fluctuate and your body adapts to lower estrogen levels. The hormonal changes can trigger irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings that may feel unpredictable.
But how do you know when this transitional period is nearing its end? And what can you do to navigate this phase with greater ease?
Table of Contents
7 Key Signs Perimenopause Is Ending
As your hormones continue to shift, your body begins sending subtle messages that menopause is near. The following signs can help you recognize this transition and understand what to expect next as you move closer to the menopause transition.
1. Menstrual Cycles Become Much Longer or Stop Entirely
As ovulation slows and estrogen levels decline, your menstrual cycle becomes more unpredictable. You might notice irregular periods that occur every few months instead of monthly. Eventually, bleeding may stop altogether. You officially reach menopause after 12 consecutive months without a period.
2. Hot Flashes and Night Sweats Start to Fade
Hot flashes and night sweats often peak in the later stages of perimenopause. As estrogen production declines and hormone fluctuations slow, these symptoms may become less frequent or intense. Some women find they sleep more comfortably and wake up more rested as their bodies adjust to consistently lower hormone levels.
3. Mood Feels More Even
Shifting hormone levels can cause irritability, anxiety, or mood swings during perimenopause. As estrogen and progesterone levels remain consistently low near the end of this stage, many women notice their moods feel steadier and more predictable..
4. Fewer Hormone-Related Headaches
Headaches triggered by hormone changes tend to lessen once estrogen levels stay low and stop fluctuating. With fewer hormonal swings, many women experience steadier energy and improved daily comfort.
5. Brain Fog Lifts
Some women notice that their thinking feels clearer as perimenopause ends, since hormone fluctuations become less intense. However, others continue to experience brain fog due to persistently low estrogen, sleep disruptions, or stress. Supporting hormone balance and overall wellness can help improve focus and mental clarity during this stage.
6. Vaginal and Skin Changes Become More Noticeable
Declining estrogen affects vaginal tissue and skin health. You may notice vaginal dryness, reduced elasticity, or thinner skin. These natural changes are part of the menopausal transition and often become more noticeable toward the end of perimenopause. Moisturizing treatments or hormone replacement therapy can help restore comfort and tissue integrity.
7. Libido May Change
Sex drive can shift in either direction. Some women feel more interested as sleep and mood improve, while others experience a decrease due to lower estrogen and testosterone. Both are normal responses to hormonal changes, and personalized hormone replacement therapy can help restore balance if these changes affect quality of life.
What Happens After Perimenopause Ends
Menopause officially begins after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. At this point, estrogen levels stay consistently low, which can affect several areas of health:
- Bone health: Lower estrogen can lead to bone loss and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
- Heart health: The protective effect estrogen once provided for the cardiovascular system declines.
- Metabolism: You may notice weight gain or changes in how your body stores fat.
- Vaginal and urinary health: Vaginal dryness, sensitivity, and urinary changes can become more noticeable.
How BHRT Helps During and After Perimenopause
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) uses plant-based hormones that mirror those naturally produced by your body. This therapy helps balance hormone levels and relieve symptoms of perimenopause.
At Madison Integrative Medicine, each BHRT plan begins with detailed hormone testing and a custom approach designed to:
- Reduce hot flashes and night sweats
- Improve mood and sleep quality
- Support vaginal and skin health
- Protect bone strength and cardiovascular health
Many women notice they regain energy, focus, and emotional stability after starting therapy. The goal is to restore balance and help you feel comfortable throughout this stage of your life.
Hormone Therapy For Women in Madison, AL
If you are starting to experience symptoms of perimenopause, that is the time to begin hormone therapy. Starting early helps prevent many of the symptoms and long-term changes that occur as estrogen and progesterone decline.
To schedule hormone therapy consultation at our wellness center in Madison, AL, call (256) 325-0955 or visit us at 1230 Slaughter Rd Suite C, Madison, AL.
FAQs
Can periods return after months of none?
Sometimes. A short return of bleeding may occur if ovulation happens again briefly. However, if you have gone a full year without menstruation, new bleeding should be evaluated by your clinician.
Do perimenopause symptoms stop suddenly?
Perimenopause symptoms rarely stop all at once. As hormone production declines, changes happen gradually. Some symptoms, like irregular periods, end quickly, while others can continue for several years after menopause begins.
How long does late perimenopause last?
Late perimenopause often lasts a few years, but the length can vary widely. During this time, menstrual cycles become much farther apart as the ovaries produce less estrogen.
Where can I find hormone therapy in Madison, AL?
Madison Integrative Medicine provides customized bioidentical hormone replacement therapy based on detailed hormone testing and continuous monitoring to support women through every stage of menopause.
