E115: The Physical Domain of Perimenopause

About 1.3 million women in the United States enter menopause each year, but the transition often begins long before the final menstrual period. In fact, perimenopause can start in a woman’s 40s—or even her late 30s—and may last several years as hormone levels fluctuate unpredictably. Despite affecting half the population, many women are surprised by the wide range of physical symptoms that can accompany this transition.

In the physical domain of perimenopause, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, PhD, launch the 7 Domains of Perimenopause series by exploring what is actually happening in the body during these transitional years. From irregular periods, hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and changing metabolism to the often-misunderstood role of hormone fluctuations, they separate common myths from evidence-based medicine.