The reason Menopause is described as a transition is because it can take years to go from running low to none at all. But even running low can cause a huge number of symptoms. This initial stage is known as Perimenopause and typically starts around your mid-to-late 40s. The thing is, there’s a good chance you won’t notice the really early symptoms. Eventually though, those symptoms will become more frequent and, often, more severe. They include: irregular periods, longer or shorter cycles, irregular ovulation, random PMS, brain fog, sleep disturbance, hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, mood swings… It’s a long list. That said, the frequency, severity and how long symptoms last, or if you see any symptoms at all, will be individual to you. This stage can last for several years, and includes being period-free for 12 months in row. In month 13, Menopause proper has started. It’s important to make the distinction here, because if you get to month 11 and start spotting, the clock resets. During this stage, symptoms still exist, but should be less severe and frequent and time goes on. Menopause typically starts at around 51 in Western countries, and could go on for a few years as well. Once most of your symptoms have abated, you’re sleeping again and the hot flashes are bearable, you’re likely in the final stage. This is Perimenopause, also known as the rest of your like, and all things being equal, you should feel a lot better.