First signs of menopause: a new stage in a woman’s life
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Time to read 13 min
Lately, have you noticed more irregular menstrual cycles, intense hot flashes, unexplained fatigue or unexpected mood swings?
These symptoms mark the start of perimenopause and are the first signs of menopause. Just like puberty, it’s a new stage in a woman’s life, affecting both her physical and emotional balance.
This new stage, this transition, although normal and natural, is often a source of questions, doubts, self-reflection, fears and worries.
And that’s quite normal when you know this phase can last several years and may come with hormonal fluctuations that cause physical and emotional imbalances.
In this article, Louloucup, a brand of comfortable, organic menstrual products, helps you understand the most common symptoms, the biological mechanisms behind them, and practical tips – such as adopting a balanced diet or using suitable solutions – so you can navigate this stage as calmly as possible. Learn to decode your body’s messages and turn these changes into a new way of taking care of yourself. Because yes, menopause can be experienced in a calm and fulfilling way – after all, no more periods or contraception, hello freedom!
In this article, you’ll find:
Perimenopause, pre-menopause, menopause and post-menopause: let’s break it down! Perimenopause Perimenopause, the time when the first signs appear Menopause, a natural stage in the life cycle The first telltale sign: changes in your menstrual cycle Periods that do whatever they want Managing these new irregularities with peace of mind Identify other common symptoms of perimenopause The unmistakable signs Spotlight: hot flashes and night sweats When sleep and mood are on a roller coaster A selection of pretty period panties for perimenopause How do you know if it’s really perimenopause? Listening to your body: the first diagnosis When and why should you see a healthcare professional? Selection of pretty period panties for light spotting and small leaks Navigating the transition calmly: tips and solutions to ease symptoms A healthy lifestyle, your best ally Natural approaches and local treatments Learning about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopause Menopause: a new chapter, not a full stop Embrace change and break the taboo Key takeaways for navigating your transition well FAQ: first signs of menopause
Perimenopause, pre-menopause, menopause and post-menopause: let’s break it down!
Perimenopause
Premenopause is quite a long phase; it can last 5 to 10 years before the final period and menopause. It’s a time when you may slowly start to notice small changes. It can begin around age 40, but this varies greatly from one woman to another.
Perimenopause, the time when the first signs appear
Perimenopause is the phase that interests us most today, because this is when we experience and notice the first symptoms and early signs.
Perimenopause lasts on average 4 to 5 years, but can extend up to 11 years, and occurs just before menopause. During this time, periods become irregular, shorter or longer, with varying intervals. It’s also when hot flashes, fatigue, sleep disturbances, mood swings and vaginal dryness tend to appear.
Pregnancy is still possible, even when ovulation becomes irregular. According to an Inserm study, this gradual transition period varies from one woman to another: some go through it in a few months, others over several years. For example, a woman may alternate between cycles spaced 60 days apart and several months without a period, before they unexpectedly return. The main thing is to listen to your body and adapt to these unique changes, while keeping in mind that this phase is preparing you for a new stage of life.
To anticipate and avoid stress, consider menstrual underwear. This healthy, organic, and practical hygienic protection is perfect during perimenopause. It can be worn all day, is soft, and super comfortable. Depending on the intensity of your flow, it effectively absorbs fluids while keeping you dry.
Menopause, a natural stage in the life cycle
Menopause marks the permanent end of periods after 12 consecutive months without menstruation. According to Inserm, this transition occurs at an average age of 51 in France, but most women experience it between 45 and 55.
This physiological process is due to the gradual depletion of ovarian follicles, leading to a drop in estrogen and progesterone.
Every year, 400,000 French women go through this stage, affecting over 10 million women in total. Rest assured: it’s a natural transition, just like puberty or pregnancy.
First signs of menopause: changes in your menstrual cycle
Periods that do whatever they want
Menstrual irregularities often mark the start of perimenopause. Your cycles become unpredictable: from 28 days, they may drop to 25 or stretch to 35.
Sometimes you skip a period altogether and don’t have your period for a whole month. Or your period shows up randomly (which can be a bit annoying—hence the emergency period panties in your bag).
Menstrual flow also varies: heavy one month, light the next, or just a few spots of blood (spotting). These variations reflect a natural hormonal evolution. When you place your order, remember to choose different models of period panties with different absorption levels.
Why so much irregularity? The ovaries gradually reduce their production of estrogen and progesterone. They’re running out of steam. This disrupts ovulation, making cycles more variable. These changes aren’t a problem; they’re actually quite normal. This irregularity is a sign that your body is entering a transition.
Managing these new irregularities with peace of mind
Faced with these fluctuations, reliable, trustworthy protection is essential. Period underwear adapts perfectly to this rather unpredictable phase. Designed to absorb anything from light spotting to heavier flow, menstrual lingerie offers uncompromising security.
You can wear it day and night, even when bleeding starts unexpectedly. Its breathable fabric and anti-odor system keep you comfortable and at ease all day or all night.
“70% of women experience menopause as a liberation!”
Unlike disposable products, period underwear is eco-friendly, durable and reusable for many years. It prevents non-recyclable waste – a real, concrete gesture for the planet. Period underwear also helps you avoid surprises when your period comes early or late. You can also pair it with other methods, like a menstrual cup or menstrual disc.
At the first signs of irregularity, we strongly recommend that you see your doctor, midwife or gynecologist. Although it’s natural and part of life, it’s important to seek medical advice, especially if the bleeding is very heavy or painful. At the same time, a balanced diet, regular physical activity and plants like evening primrose can help soothe the discomfort.
Identify other common symptoms of perimenopause
The unmistakable signs
Perimenopause comes with many physical and emotional signs. It’s important to understand them well, because knowledge and information are the best ways to stay in control and avoid unnecessary worry.
The table below sums up the main symptoms, how they show up, and what you may feel day to day during perimenopause.
|
Symptom |
Description | What you might feel |
| Hot flashes and night sweats |
Sudden heat in the upper body, followed by heavy sweating |
I get sudden hot flashes. And it can be really unsettling. |
| Sleep disturbances |
Frequent awakenings, difficulty falling asleep |
My nights are a real marathon. And a certain fatigue can set in. |
| Mood swings |
Irritability, anxiety, heightened sensitivity |
I feel on edge for no reason. I can be tearful at the drop of a hat. |
| Fatigue |
Persistent exhaustion, even without exertion |
I feel completely drained of energy. |
| Weight gain |
Fat redistribution to the abdomen |
My favourite jeans don’t fit me anymore, I feel bloated. |
| Vaginal dryness and low libido |
Pain during intercourse, vaginal dryness |
My intimate life has become complicated, I just don’t feel like it anymore. |
| Urinary disorders |
Urine leaks, frequent urges to pee |
I always need to know where the restroom is. |
| Joint pain |
Stiffness in fingers, knees, hips |
I feel 10 years older in the morning. |
Spotlight: hot flashes and night sweats
Hot flashes result from vasomotor disturbances regulated by the hypothalamus. These episodes, affecting around 70% of women according to official data, cause blood vessels to dilate and trigger intense sweating. Night sweats are the sleep-disrupting version. They are truly one of the first signs of menopause.
Hot flashes can be quite unsettling and destabilizing, and they’re not very pleasant. They can last for more than 5 years after your periods stop. To ease them, opt for cotton clothing, lightweight bedding or natural methods like yoga. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) remains the most effective option for the most debilitating cases, so don’t hesitate to ask for advice.
When sleep and mood are on a roller coaster
Night sweats disrupt sleep, causing frequent awakenings and, over time, chronic fatigue. This lack of rest worsens mood swings linked to the drop in estrogen. This hormone regulates serotonin and dopamine, which directly influence emotional well-being. In short, it’s a vicious cycle that can be hard to break.
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Avoid caffeine and heavy evening meals,
Do some breathing exercises before going to bed,
Don’t hesitate to do 5 to 10 minutes of gentle stretching before bed,
Use washable period panties for extra comfort if you have discharge.
Meditation, acupuncture or light HRT, on medical advice, can also help. Rest assured: these fluctuations are temporary and part of the body’s natural cycle.
A selection of pretty period panties for perimenopause
How do you know if it’s really perimenopause?
Listening to your body: the first diagnosis
To recognise the first signs of perimenopause, listening to your body is essential. Keeping a journal of your menstrual cycles, their regularity and intensity helps you identify subtle changes. It’s also very useful when you see your doctor, so you can show all the changes and variations you’ve been experiencing.
Variations of 7 days or more in cycle length can be a sign. Keeping track of symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep disturbances or fatigue helps you better understand this transition. So grab a little notebook or a mobile app, whichever you prefer.
When and why should you see a healthcare professional?
It’s recommended to see a doctor when symptoms become bothersome or when you need reassuring medical advice. Diagnosis is based on age, reported symptoms and how your cycles are changing.
Blood tests, such as measuring FSH, are not done systematically because hormone levels fluctuate. Medical follow-up can, however, rule out other causes such as thyroid disorders.
For example, repeated night sweats or unexplained vaginal dryness deserve to be checked.
Why see a doctor?
To confirm that these are indeed the first signs of menopause.
To discuss symptoms and their impact on your quality of life.
To rule out other possible causes of your symptoms, such as thyroid problems.
To get personalized advice and learn about the solutions available.
The French government is encouraging the introduction of a dedicated menopause consultation to provide tailored support for this natural stage of life. This initiative aims to offer concrete solutions, such as advice for restorative sleep or the use of natural methods to ease discomfort.
We’d also like to take this opportunity to stress how important it is to keep seeing your gynecologist or midwife at least once a year. Just because your periods and contraception are over doesn’t mean you should stop your check-ups! Hormonal changes can increase the risk of osteoporosis or cardiovascular issues. Breast and gynecological cancers are also more common after age 50, so keep getting checked and take care of yourself!
Selection of pretty period panties for spotting and light discharge
Navigating the transition calmly: tips and solutions to ease symptoms
A healthy lifestyle, your best ally
A healthy lifestyle helps ease the discomforts of menopause. Hot flushes, fatigue or sleep disturbances can be reduced with a few simple adjustments:
Avoid alcohol.
Prioritize a **balanced diet**: focus on leafy greens (spinach, arugula), citrus fruits, whole grains and oily fish (salmon) to support your bones and your mood. Avoid salty processed foods, bad fats and sugary dishes.
Try to get some physical activity and stay active: 30 minutes of brisk walking a day, yoga, gentle Pilates, swimming. Exercise helps stabilize sleep and weight, and brings calm and confidence.
Learn to manage stress and not let it overwhelm you: sophrology, hypnosis, meditation, breathing techniques (4-7-8) or creative activities (gardening) help soothe mood swings. Surround yourself with positive people, it matters! Find a listening ear—you shouldn’t have to go through this alone.
Take care of yourself and avoid **triggers**: foods or situations (like heat) that make your symptoms worse.
Natural approaches and local treatments
For night sweats and nighttime perspiration:
Sage and hops, rich in phytoestrogens, mimic oestrogens to reduce night sweats and hot flushes.
Magnesium and vitamin E.
Certain dietary supplements such as fenugreek, red clover or black cohosh.
For vaginal dryness:
Water-based lubricants: use before intercourse for immediate relief.
Vaginal moisturizers: 2–3 times a week to restore elasticity.
Natural solutions: coconut oil or aloe, while avoiding irritating products (olive oil, butter).
Learning about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopause
HRT is intended for severe symptoms (debilitating hot flashes) and must be decided with your doctor. It reduces hot flashes and helps prevent osteoporosis, but it also carries risks (such as thrombosis with oral forms). Your doctor will review your family history and will favor the transdermal route where possible.
Menopause: a new chapter, not a full stop
Embrace change and break the taboo
Menopause marks a natural stage in a woman’s life, often surrounded by silence. Yet millions of women are going through this transition at the same time as you. It’s time to say goodbye to unpredictable periods and contraception, and welcome a new era of bodily freedom.
Talking openly about this time of life, with loved ones or a professional, helps break taboos. This phase can also be an opportunity to refocus on yourself, valuing wisdom and resilience. You are free! By sharing your experiences and feelings, you normalize this stage and support other women. #sisterhood
Key takeaways for navigating your transition well
To stay relaxed and in control, here are the key points to keep in mind:
Perimenopause often begins around the age of 45-50. It lasts several years with a gradual decrease in estrogen.
To wash your period underwear and extend its lifespan, here are 7 mistakes to avoid. Louloucup also gives you the 3 key steps for proper care.
Listen to your body: note symptoms (fatigue, hot flashes, sleep disturbances) and discuss them with a professional. A journal or app helps identify patterns.
There are solutions: hormonal treatments, natural methods such as black cohosh or lemon balm, and menstrual panties to manage bleeding without irritation.
Perimenopause marks the beginning of a new chapter, rich in renewed freedom. By understanding these changes, talking with other women and exploring available solutions, every woman can navigate this stage with peace of mind. It’s a natural transition, to be experienced fully, together.
IN SHORT
Perimenopause, the transition phase before menopause (around age 51), is marked by irregular cycles, hot flashes (affecting 70% of women), and a range of other symptoms. Recognizing these signs helps you adopt the right solutions, protect your well-being, and approach this natural stage with peace of mind, far from lingering taboos.
Every cycle is unique—the important thing is to know your own body!
FAQ: first signs of menopause
What is perimenopause?
This is the period in a woman’s life that precedes menopause. It can last between 5 and 10 years, up until the final period.
What is perimenopause?
This is the stage in a woman’s life that always occurs before menopause and can last between 2 and 4 years. Symptoms are more visible and intense.
What is menopause?
This is the time in a menstruating woman’s life when her periods stop. A woman is considered to have reached menopause when she has not had a period for the last 12 months.
What are the first signs of perimenopause?
The first signs of perimenopause often manifest as menstrual irregularities (shorter, longer, or spaced cycles), mild hot flashes, mood swings, or unexplained fatigue. These symptoms result from hormonal fluctuations, notably the gradual decline of estrogen. According to Inserm, this phase can last several years before the final cessation of periods. Although these signs are common, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional to confirm that it is indeed perimenopause and not other disorders.
What are the key stages of menopause?
Foods to prioritize for an optimal follicular phase
How does menopause begin?
The onset of menopause, or perimenopause, is marked by subtle changes in the body: irregular periods, mild sleep disturbances, irritability or weight gain. These signs appear as the ovaries gradually reduce their estrogen production. Some women may also experience **vaginal dryness** or **hot flashes**. These symptoms vary from one woman to another, and their intensity depends on genetic, dietary and lifestyle factors.
Does perimenopause cause fatigue?
Yes, fatigue is a common symptom during perimenopause. It results from the drop in estrogen, which affects sleep quality (frequent awakenings linked to night sweats), but also from stress and mood swings. This fatigue can be worsened by deficiencies (iron, magnesium) or a lack of exercise. To address it, prioritize good sleep hygiene, balanced meals, and calming activities (yoga, meditation). If the fatigue persists, a medical check-up is recommended to rule out other causes (thyroid issues, anemia).
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