What is the difference between perimenopause and menopause?

The terms perimenopause and menopause are often confused. However, they do not refer to the same thing. At Ainoha™, the distinction is based on a chronological and biological interpretation of the hormonal transition.

Finding the right words to describe what you are experiencing is an important step towards seeing things more clearly.

Perimenopause: the onset of hormonal changes

Perimenopause corresponds to the first hormonal changes, which can appear as early as the late thirties, sometimes earlier in some women.

At this stage, the body begins to change its hormonal balance, without any clear break or clearly identifiable event. Although cycles are still present, they may become less stable.

Hormone levels, particularly oestrogen and progesterone, begin to fluctuate more from one cycle to the next. These changes can result in subtle or intermittent symptoms, such as irregular menstrual cycles, unusual fatigue, mood swings, changes in libido, and less restful sleep.

These symptoms do not indicate a dysfunction. They are part of a gradual adjustment phase that is often difficult to identify because it is not well understood. This is why many women experience it without being able to describe what is happening to them.

Perimenopause: the entire hormonal transition

Perimenopause refers to a broader period. It encompasses the entire hormonal transition, from the initial changes of perimenopause to the stabilisation of hormones after menopause, known as postmenopause.

In other words, perimenopause is a biological continuum. It includes:

•  the onset of hormonal fluctuations,
• their progression over time,
• then their gradual stabilization after the cycles have stopped.

In this context, perimenopause does not refer to a distinct phase; rather, it marks the beginning of the perimenopausal period.

Understanding this continuity helps us avoid taking an overly rigid view of the stages and to recognise that every woman progresses at her own pace.

To summarise:

• Perimenopause corresponds to the first signs of hormonal readjustment.
• Perimenopause encompasses the entire hormonal transition, from the first signs to postmenopausal stabilization.

Expressing your feelings allows you to listen to your body more closely without worrying or dismissing your concerns. Most importantly, it enables you to progress with a greater understanding, gentleness, and accuracy, at your own pace, thanks to clearer guidelines.