18/10/2025
PHASES OF PERIMENOPAUSE // What I’ve found incredibly helpful as I personally navigate perimenopause, is understanding that it’s not necessarily something that will hit me all at once, but rather a gradual process.
I’m in very early perimenopause, so I’ve been noting the changes in my periods and menstrual cycle - both have gotten a few days shorter.
I’ve also been paying more attention to cervical fluid because I know that I don’t always ovulate every menstrual cycle now. If I see cervical fluid close to when I expect my period to arrive, that means I didn’t ovulate and my estrogen levels are still relatively high.
Knowing these phases of perimenopause, which were helpfully originated by Canadian professor Dr. Jerilynn Prior, means that for me personally, I can go through this transition to my last period with my eyes open, being sure to nourish myself well, move my body and set really clear boundaries.
When it comes to your body, knowledge really is power and the more you know, the better you can prepare yourself for your own perimenopausal transition.
Did it surprise you to learn that there are phases to perimenopause?
PMID: 24753856