Menopause is not a single event but a journey through 5 phases. Understanding these phases helps you recognise where you are and what to expect.
The 5 phases
Phase 1: Early perimenopause (from ~40-45) - subtle cycle changes, mild mood shifts. Phase 2: Late perimenopause - clearly irregular periods, hot flushes begin, fatigue increases. Phase 3: Menopause - 12 months without a period, average age 51, symptoms often peak. Phase 4: Early post-menopause (first 5 years) - symptoms gradually decrease, bone density begins declining faster. Phase 5: Late post-menopause - most symptoms stabilise, focus on bone and cardiovascular health.
Testing per phase
Hormone tests (FSH, oestradiol) are valuable in every phase: to confirm perimenopause, establish a baseline for therapy, or monitor ongoing treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Which phase has the most symptoms?
Most women experience the heaviest symptoms in phases 2 and 3. Intensity typically decreases gradually after that.
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