Perimenopause is the transition leading up to menopause. During this stage, estrogen and progesterone can begin changing less predictably.

You may continue having regular or irregular periods while experiencing changes such as:

• Hot flashes or night sweats
• Disrupted sleep
• Mood changes or increased irritability
• Changes in the timing, length, or heaviness of your period
• Feeling less like yourself

Menopause is reached after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, but changes associated with the transition can begin years before the final period.