Direct Answer: Menopause isnβt a single moment but a journey with three main stages: perimenopause (the transition years with fluctuating hormones), menopause (diagnosed after 12 months without a period), and postmenopause (the years following, when oestrogen remains consistently low).
π¬ The Science of Menopause Stages
Menopause is driven by the gradual decline of ovarian function. As oestrogen and progesterone production falls, the entire endocrine system adjusts β affecting bones, skin, brain, metabolism, and cardiovascular health.
Hormone receptors exist throughout the body, which is why menopause symptoms extend far beyond the reproductive system.
π The Three Stages of Menopause
| Stage | When It Happens | Whatβs Happening | Key Symptoms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Perimenopause | Usually mid-40s, but can start earlier | Oestrogen & progesterone fluctuate unpredictably | Irregular cycles, hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, brain fog |
| Menopause | Officially diagnosed after 12 months without periods | Ovarian hormone production ceases | Hot flushes, vaginal dryness, anxiety, fatigue |
| Postmenopause | After menopause, for the rest of life | Consistently low oestrogen | Higher risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, skin ageing, memory decline |
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πΏ Why Support Matters at Each Stage
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Perimenopause β Focus on adaptogens and phytoestrogens to cushion hormonal swings and support mood, cognition, and energy. PERI blend includes red clover, maca, ginkgo and dong quai for exactly this reason.
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Menopause / Postmenopause β Support for bone density, heart health, skin, and energy becomes more important. MENO blend includes:
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Soy isoflavones & red clover β natural phytoestrogens for symptom relief
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Dong quai root & sage β support temperature regulation and circulation
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Coenzyme Q10 & grape seed extract β powerful antioxidants for energy and heart health
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Lactobacillus acidophilus β gut and immune support
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π Explore PERI here
π Explore MENO here
π§ Summary
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Menopause is a process with three stages: perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause.
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Hormonal changes ripple through the whole body β affecting mood, sleep, skin, bones, and cognition.
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PERI supports women through fluctuating hormones, while MENO supports longer-term balance and protection postmenopause.
π Explore PERI here
π Explore MENO here
β FAQs: Stages of Menopause
Q: How long does perimenopause last?
A: On average 4β8 years, though it varies.
Q: When is menopause confirmed?
A: After 12 months with no periods.
Q: What happens in postmenopause?
A: Oestrogen remains low for life, increasing risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and skin ageing.
Q: Can supplements support different stages?
A: Yes β PERI helps during the transition, while MENO supports long-term health in menopause and beyond.
π Explore PERI here
π Explore MENO here
