Perimenopause vs Menopause: What’s the Difference and When to Get Help?
Introduction:
Trying to understand the shifts in your body in your 40s and 50s can be bewildering and overwhelming. Most women in the UK look for answers to questions such as “What’s the difference between perimenopause and menopause?” or “Do I need to see a doctor about perimenopause?”. In this blog, we analyse the main differences, signs to look out for, and when to consult an expert — with tips from Dr. Sandar Hlaing, a respected women’s health and menopause expert in Swansea.
What Is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the phase before menopause. It usually begins in a woman’s 40s but can begin as early as the mid-30s.
Common Perimenopause Symptoms:
- Irregular periods
- Hot flashes
- Mood swings
- Sleep disturbances
- Weight gain
- Brain fog
This stage can take anywhere from a few months to 10 years or more.
What Is Menopause?
Menopause can be described as the stage at which a woman has experienced no period over 12 consecutive months. The UK average age is approximately 51.
Menopause Symptoms:
- Dryness of the vagina
- Night sweats
- Low sex drive
- Anxiety or depression
- Aching joints and muscles
These manifestations may last well into the postmenopausal period.
Key Differences: Perimenopause vs Menopause
| Feature | Perimenopause | Menopause |
| Periods | Irregular | None for 12+ months |
| Hormones | Fluctuating | Low/Stable |
| Symptoms | Varying and unpredictable | Often more stable |
| Fertility | Reduced, but possible | Not possible |
When to Seek Help?
Some women put off getting help, but it may be life-altering to know when to see a specialist. See a healthcare provider such as Dr. Sandar Hlaing if you have:
- Severe or persistent symptoms
- Bleeding between periods
- Symptoms interfering with daily life
- Hesitation about hormone therapy choices
At Dr. S Hlaing Women’s Health, we provide personalised consultations, hormone therapy care, and holistic treatment for midlife women.
Innovative Treatments & Support Options
Dr. Sandar Hlaing has a reputation for blending traditional and contemporary solutions to enable women to flourish during perimenopause and menopause.
Services offered include:
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
- Lifestyle and diet counseling
- Pelvic floor and incontinence therapy such as Ultra Tesla Chair
- Mental wellness support
Why Choose Dr. Sandar Hlaing?
With a profound insight and understanding of women’s health and compassionate, patient-centric approach, Dr. Hlaing is a top recommendation for menopause care in the UK. Her private clinic in Swansea provides professional advice in a comfortable setting.
Conclusion
Knowing the difference between perimenopause and menopause can make you take control of your well-being. You might just be starting to experience symptoms, or you may already be dealing with menopause, but either way, you’re not alone.
Need some guidance on your journey? Contact us to get a tailored consultation with Dr. Sandar Hlaing today.
