What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transition leading up to menopause, when ovarian activity starts to decline and cycles often become more irregular. Symptoms may begin years before periods stop completely.
Frequently asked questions
Short answers to common questions about symptoms, timing, tests, treatment options, bleeding changes, pregnancy risk, and where to seek care.
What is menopause?
Menopause is usually defined as 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, vaginal bleeding, or spotting for no other obvious reason.
Can symptoms start before my periods stop?
Yes. A first sign can be a change in period pattern, but sleep change, hot flushes, mood change, or brain fog may begin beforehand.
Is there a blood test for perimenopause?
Usually not a useful routine one over 45. Hormone levels can fluctuate unpredictably, so clinical guidance focuses mainly on symptoms and cycle change.
Can home FSH tests tell me if I am in menopause?
Not reliably. FSH levels rise and fall during the cycle, so a home test cannot settle menopause status by itself.
Can urinary symptoms be part of menopause?
Yes, urgency, frequency, and discomfort can be part of genitourinary symptoms associated with menopause. But frequent urination with stinging should be checked because infection or other causes can overlap.
What helps vaginal dryness?
Starting points usually include vaginal moisturisers or lubricants. Clinicians may also discuss vaginal oestrogen for genitourinary symptoms associated with menopause.
Can I still get pregnant in perimenopause?
Yes. Pregnancy can still be possible during perimenopause, so contraception questions should be discussed with a clinician or local healthcare service.
When should I seek care?
Seek care if symptoms are severe, if you have urinary stinging and frequency, if you bleed after 12 months without periods, if bleeding becomes different from before, or if symptoms start unusually early.
Where do I start in Finland or Sweden?
In Finland, general practice or occupational health can usually start typical menopause care. In Sweden, a healthcare centre is the usual first step and 1177 can advise where to go.
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