The difference between perimenopause and menopause

Perimenopause and menopause are two related but distinctly different stages. Perimenopause specifically refers to the period from when a woman's ovarian function begins to decline until one year after her final menstrual period, lasting approximately 3 to 5 years, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 48. The main symptoms during this phase include irregular menstruation, reduced or increased menstrual flow, eventually leading to complete cessation of menstruation. Menopause, on the other hand, is a broader concept that encompasses both perimenopause and the postmenopausal period, spanning from around age 45 to 60 and potentially lasting longer. During menopause, in addition to menstrual changes, women may experience irritability, insomnia with frequent dreams, hot flashes, and excessive sweating. Ovulation becomes irregular, yet pregnancy remains possible. In short, perimenopause is part of menopause, but the two differ in duration and symptom presentation.