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10 Perimenopause Symptoms You Could Be Missing

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Think menopause starts when your period ends? Not quite. The transition before menopause called perimenopause—can begin as early as your late 30s or early 40s.

Here’s what to watch for when your hormones start to shift:


1. Shorter or Longer Menstrual Cycles

Sudden changes in cycle length—even by a few days—can signal early hormonal changes. Periods may also become heavier or lighter.

2. Mood Swings or Irritability

Fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels can trigger mood changes, emotional sensitivity, or even feelings of rage.

3. Sleep Disturbances

Struggling to fall asleep or waking up at 3AM wide awake? Perimenopause disrupts your sleep-wake cycle.

4. Increased Anxiety or Panic

You may feel anxious for no clear reason. These hormonal dips can spike cortisol and reduce calming brain chemicals like GABA.

5. Breast Tenderness

More pronounced breast pain or fullness before your period? Estrogen surges can create discomfort and sensitivity.

6. Brain Fog or Forgetfulness

Losing your train of thought, misplacing things, or feeling “spacey” can be early perimenopause signs—not aging.

7. Fatigue That Doesn’t Improve with Sleep

You may feel drained even after 8 hours of rest. It’s a sign your hormones (and adrenals) need support.

8. Low Libido or Vaginal Dryness

These often show up years before periods stop—because estrogen and testosterone are already declining.

9. Weight Gain or Bloating

Especially around your belly or hips—even if your eating habits haven’t changed.

10. Hot Flashes or Night Sweats

They’re not just for menopause. You may feel sudden heat surges or wake up sweaty during perimenopause.

You’re Not “Just Getting Older”—Your Hormones Are Changing

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Perimenopause is a hormonal rollercoaster, but the right functional support can help you feel like yourself again.

Your personalised Ask Dr Olz protocol may include:

  • Estrogen-balancing nutrients
  • Stress support for adrenal health
  • Sleep and mood regulation tools
  • Gut and liver detox support
  • Optional testing to track hormone shifts

Get Ahead of Hormone Chaos—Book Your Consult

You don’t have to wait until menopause to take control. Let’s assess your symptoms and build your custom plan for this next chapter.

👉 Book a virtual consult with Dr. Olz and start balancing your hormones naturally.

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Picture of Dr. Olwethu Sotondoshe
Dr. Olwethu Sotondoshe

My mission is to empower individuals to achieve optimal health through holistic and integrative care. We are committed to providing personalized telehealth consultations and premium wellness products that support and enhance your well-being.

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