The First Sign of Perimenopause: Why Your Period Might Be Changing

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.

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