The First Sign of Perimenopause: Why Your Period Might Be Changing
- Amy Simpson
- Feb 14
- 2 min read
Perimenopause - the transition phase before menopause - can arrive subtly or with noticeable shifts in your menstrual cycle. The first sign of perimenopause is often a longer, heavier period and a shorter cycle, often beginning in the late 30s to early 40s. This is what I notice first in my clinic.
While every woman’s journey is unique, understanding the hormonal changes behind these shifts can help you navigate this season with confidence.
Why Does Your Period Get Heavier and Cycles Get Shorter?
Hormonal fluctuations are the primary reason your cycle may suddenly feel different. During perimenopause:
👉Oestrogen levels become unpredictable – sometimes surging higher than usual before dropping sharply.
👉Progesterone begins to decline due to less frequent or inconsistent ovulation.
👉The follicular phase shortens, meaning the time between menstruation and ovulation is reduced, leading to shorter cycles.
These changes can cause heavier or prolonged bleeding. The good news? While disruptive, these shifts are normal signs that your body is adjusting into perimenopause.
When does perimenopause start? The first signs of perimenopause:
Every woman experiences perimenopause differently, but certain factors can affect when it starts and how intense the symptoms are:
👉Genetics – If your mother or grandmother entered perimenopause early, you might too.
👉Lifestyle – Diet, exercise, body size, lean mass vs fat mass, and overall health impact hormonal balance.
👉Stress levels – Chronic stress can accelerate hormonal shifts by affecting the adrenal glands and overall hormone production.
Tracking your cycle, noting changes, and addressing stress, diet, and lifestyle factors can help support a smoother transition.
Matrescence and Perimenopause: The Overlapping Transitions
If you’re navigating both matrescence (the transformation into motherhood) and perimenopause (the transition to menopause) at the same time, you’re not alone. Many women today are having children later in life, meaning they may experience postpartum recovery while also managing the early signs of perimenopause.
The hormonal, neurological, and nutritional needs of these two transitions are profound, and supporting your body through both is essential.
How I Can Help
Hi, I’m Amy, a naturopath passionate about helping women through the complex hormonal changes of perimenopause and matrescence. Whether you’re experiencing heavy periods, short cycles, mood shifts, or exhaustion, I provide evidence-based, holistic care to help you rebalance your body and thrive during these life stages. Book an appointment to feel more in control of your hormones and wellbeing today.
Amy is a degree-qualified naturopath dedicated to helping busy, tired clients regain their energy and vitality.
She combines evidence-based naturopathic medicine, nutrition, and lifestyle interventions to empower clients on their journey to optimal health. Whether it’s reclaiming energy, balancing hormones, resolving digestive issues, or enhancing overall well-being and longevity, her personalised approach focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of health concerns. With a Bachelor of Health Science, ongoing studies in a Master of Advanced Practice, and full membership in the Naturopaths and Herbalists Association of Australia, Amy offers a unique blend of traditional wisdom and science to support individuals and families at every stage of life.
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