Think You’re Too Young for Menopause? Think Again

As we learn more about menopause through conversation, social media, and awareness campaigns, it’s easier to separate what is actually the truth and people’s real experiences. When most people hear the word menopause, they picture someone in their late 50s or 60s. The truth is, menopause is a journey, and it can start much earlier than you might expect. It’s a natural cycle in every woman’s life. The three stages of this cycle are:

Stage 1 - Perimenopause

Perimenopause is the first stage of the menopause journey, often starting in your late 30s or 40s. During this time, hormone levels begin to fluctuate, which can cause irregular periods, mood swings, brain fog, and changes in energy. While it’s a natural part of aging, the symptoms can be surprising and sometimes confusing especially because they can start years before your final period. 

Stage 2 - Menopause

Menopause is the stage that follows perimenopause and is officially reached when you haven’t had a period for 12 consecutive months. This is when estrogen and other hormone levels settle at a lower level, and common symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, and vaginal dryness can appear. Menopause marks the end of your reproductive years.

Stage 3 - Postmenopause

Postmenopause is the stage that comes after menopause, starting once you’ve gone a full year without a period. Hormone levels remain low, which can bring ongoing changes to your body, including shifts in metabolism, bone density, and heart health. 

Why Your Menopause Journey Could Start Sooner Than You Think

While we often generalise about the ages at which each stage of menopause begins, it can start sooner than most people expect. Every woman’s body is different, and factors like genetics, family history, and overall health all matter when perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause can occur. 

Some women may notice changes in their late 30s, while others might not experience significant shifts until their late 40s or early 50s. 

🌼Did you know? The youngest known case of menopause in the UK occurred at just 11 years old, with Amanda being the youngest person to experience it at that age.[1]

How Do You Know It’s Perimenopause? 

Perimenopause can start very subtle, and its symptoms often overlap with other conditions, making it tricky to recognise at first. Learning the symptoms and keeping track in a journal or even just your phone, can help pinpoint if it’s Perimenopause. The most common symptoms include:

• Irregular periods
• Hot flashes
• Fatigue and low energy
• Mood swings, irritability, or anxiety
• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating

Because these symptoms are common to other health issues, it’s important not to assume every change is perimenopause.

Many pharmacies (even online ones) now offer hormone tests that you can order and use yourself, giving an insight of where your body cycle is at. These can range from £35 to £150+, depending on who you purchase from.

Of course, this is just one option. Speaking to your local GP or a qualified healthcare professional is always a good idea if you’re unsure about your symptoms. They can provide guidance, interpret test results, and help rule out other conditions that might be causing similar signs.