September was recognized as Perimenopause Awareness Month in Vermont, thanks to a proclamation from Governor Phil Scott. It may seem like a small gesture, but it matters. Perimenopause is a natural stage of life that affects many people in midlife including many women and some gender-diverse individuals. Too often it goes unspoken or misunderstood. Naming it is the first step toward awareness, support, and better health.
What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transition leading up to menopause. It can begin in the late 30s or 40s and often lasts five to ten years. Hormone shifts during this time can bring on a wide range of symptoms, sometimes subtle, sometimes disruptive.
Common symptoms include:
- Irregular or heavier periods
- Hot flashes or night sweats
- Trouble sleeping
- Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
- Mood changes, such as anxiety or irritability
- Weight shifts
- Joint pain (frozen shoulder, bursitis)
Not everyone experiences all of these symptoms, but for many they can significantly affect daily life.
Why awareness matters
Here in Vermont, more than 39,000 people between the ages of 35 and 45 are already in the early stages of this transition. Yet many are told, “that’s just aging,” or they don’t get clear information about what’s happening to their bodies. That leaves people feeling uncertain or alone when they don’t need to be.
You don’t have to go through it alone
Perimenopause is normal, but that doesn’t mean you have to just put up with the symptoms. There are effective strategies - from lifestyle approaches like nutrition, physical activity, and better sleep, to safe medical treatments, including menopause hormone therapy when it’s the right fit.
The most important step is to bring your questions and symptoms to your healthcare provider. You deserve to be heard, and you deserve support.
The bottom line
Perimenopause Awareness Month may be over, but the conversation shouldn’t stop. The more we talk about this stage of life, the more people can feel prepared, informed, and supported. Awareness is only the beginning — from there comes care, community, and confidence in navigating this transition.
Kimberley J. Sampson-Paine, MD, MSc, FACOG, DABOM, DABLM, MSCP is Chair of OB/GYN, Southwestern Vermont Medical Center