What Is Perimenopause?

February 27, 2026
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What Is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause vs. Menopause

While many women may think of menopause as the time during middle age that their period ends, the symptoms of menopause can last for years and occur during a stage called perimenopause. Read on to learn more about the conditions you might experience during this change.


Menopause

If you haven’t had a period for one full year, you’re in menopause. Most women in the U.S. go through menopause in their early fifties, but for some women, it can occur much earlier or later.


Perimenopause

Your ovaries produce hormones that control your period and other processes in your body, but as you get closer to menopause, your ovaries gradually produce fewer of these hormones. We call this transitional phase “perimenopause.”


What to Expect During Perimenopause

The hormonal and biological changes and physical symptoms that occur during perimenopause last an average of three to five years, but they can last as few as two years or as many as eight years for some women. While some women may have few to no symptoms during this time, many will, and it can be a different experience for everyone. Some of the symptoms of menopause and perimenopause include:

  • Hot flashes
  • Irregular periods
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Sleep disorders
  • Depression and irritability
  • Increased risk of osteoporosis
  • Increased risk of cardiovascular disease

Schedule an Appointment with Our Certified Team!

Led by a certified adult-gerontology nurse practitioner, we provide personalized, evidence-based care to help manage symptoms such as hormonal imbalance, fatigue, mood changes, and sleep disturbances. Through expert guidance and patient-centered support, we empower women to take control of their health and thrive through every stage of midlife.


Whether you’re seeking relief from perimenopause symptoms, support for menopause symptoms, or personalized perimenopause treatment, our team is here to help. Our telehealth medicine services, including HRT therapy, are available to those in Panama City, FL; Niceville, FL; Crestview, FL; Miramar Beach, FL; Pensacola, FL; and everywhere in the state of Florida.


Contact us to learn more about our programs or schedule your consultation and find relief today!

Surprising Symptoms of Perimenopause
March 7, 2026
During perimenopause and menopause, your estrogen levels decline, resulting in a range of symptoms that can disrupt your life. While symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats seem to be well known, cognitive and sexual symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue, and low libido can be just as disruptive.
What Are My Treatment Options for Perimenopause?
March 7, 2026
If the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause are disrupting your life, you don’t just have to take it - you can make changes that improve your quality of life. Diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes can reduce the symptoms and complications of menopause.
Tired All the Time and Can’t Sleep?
March 7, 2026
If you’re over the age of 40 and you have trouble falling asleep or can’t seem to get a good night’s sleep, it could be one of the symptoms of perimenopause. Sleep disturbances are a common part of the transition leading to menopause, and you may experience them even before your periods start changing.
Why Am I Gaining Weight?
March 7, 2026
One of the frustrating parts of getting older is maintaining a healthy weight, and this can be especially challenging for women going through perimenopause. While it’s natural to gain a few pounds, with 60 to 70% of women gaining weight in perimenopause, it’s also important to support your overall health.
How Long Will Perimenopause Last?
March 7, 2026
If you’ve started to experience the symptoms of perimenopause, you may be wondering - how long will this last? Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer to this question, and your experience could be very different from someone else’s.
Mood Swings, Anxiety, or Depression in Perimenopause
March 7, 2026
Crying easily, low self-esteem, feeling numb, and losing interest in your normal activities can all be symptoms of mood changes during the transition to menopause. Nearly half of women going through perimenopause may experience symptoms similar to PMS.
Hot Flashes and Night Sweats
March 7, 2026
You’ve had a long day, but you’re finally getting some well-deserved rest when suddenly, you wake up sweaty and uncomfortable - another night’s sleep disrupted. Hot flashes and night sweats are common for women going through perimenopause, but the fact that they’re normal doesn’t make them any less frustrating.
Why Are My Periods Irregular?
March 7, 2026
If you’ve noticed that you’re getting your period less frequently or it’s changed in some way, you may be feeling concerned. While everyone’s cycle is different and it’s normal to have slight variations in your period, you’re probably wondering what caused the change.
What Can I Expect During Perimenopause?
March 7, 2026
At Panacea Health Haven, we offer compassionate, personalized care for women navigating midlife changes, specializing in treatment for perimenopause and menopause symptoms. Read on to learn more about the symptoms you may experience as you age.