Drying and thinning of the vaginal tissues is another. The tissues supporting the pelvic organs lose their elasticity resulting in painful intercourse, or urinary tract problems. Insomnia, irritability, and forgetfulness lead the list of psychological symptoms associated with peri-menopause. The elevation of FSH is one of the last signs to reveal itself, so a normal level definitely does not mean that a woman is not in peri-menopause. Hypothyroid occurs more often in women and in the same age groups as perimenopause.
Menstrual irregularities are a major sign in women with thyroid.
Fatigue, forgetfulness, and dryness also overlap. But, those with hypothyroidism will feel cold not have hot flashes. Still, flashes come later and the early perimenopause may be confused with it. Simple lab tests can tell a woman for certain. They are not for everyone, but work well in many women.