Perimenopauseis one of the least understood yet most impactful transitions in a woman’s life.

This widespread misunderstanding leads to frustration, misdiagnosis, and unnecessary suffering.

One of the biggest misconceptions is thatperimenopause1only begins when menstrual cycles become unpredictable.

Jila Senemar, M.D., FACOG

Instead, they may be prescribed antidepressants orsleep aidswithout addressing the root hormonal imbalance.

Whilehot flashes2and night sweats are well-known menopause symptoms, they arenotalways the first indicators of perimenopause.

In fact, many women never develop them.

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Recognizing them ashormonal shiftscan help women get the support they need earlier.

Many women are surprised to learn thatperimenopause is not a short phaseit can last a decade or more.

Women experiencing suddenanxiety, depression, or brain fog are often told it’s just stress.

But hormonal changesdirectly affect brain chemistry, influencing serotonin and dopaminethe body’s “feel-good” neurotransmitters.

Many women believe perimenopause is something they must endure, but that’s far from the truth.

The key isearly recognition and proactive care, not just waiting for symptoms to worsen.

Final thoughts: Empowering women through education

Perimenopause isnot a diseaseit’s a natural life transition.

However, the lack of education around it leaves many women feeling dismissed and unsupported.

For more expert insights, visitJilaMD.com.