An Expert Answers Your Questions About Perimenopause and PMS

Summary: Ever wonder if your mood swings and bloating are just PMS or the start of perimenopause? It can be tricky to tell! Perimenopause usually starts in your late 30s to mid-40s. During this time, your estrogen levels bounce up and down before eventually dropping, which makes your periods irregular.

While PMS symptoms like cramps and breast tenderness happen one to two weeks before your period, perimenopause symptoms stick around. If you are having hot flashes, night sweats, forgetfulness, or joint aches randomly throughout the whole month, it is likely perimenopause. The biggest clue is timing: PMS packs its bags when your period starts, but perimenopause symptoms hang out all month long. If these changes are bothering you, talk to a doctor to find a treatment plan that helps you feel like yourself again.

Source: Healthline URL: healthline.com/health/menopause/an-expert-answers-how-can-i-tell-the-difference-between-perimenopause-and-pms-symptoms (opens in new tab)