Perimenopause can feel like a storm of unpredictable symptoms — hot flashes, mood swings, weird periods — you name it. But eventually, this phase winds down, and menopause officially begins. So how do you know you’re almost at the finish line? Here are 10 signs that perimenopause is ending.
1. Your periods are practically nonexistent
One of the biggest indicators that perimenopause is wrapping up is how often (or rather, how rarely) you get your period. If you’ve gone months without one — sometimes 60 to 90 days or longer — menopause may be right around the corner. Once you hit a full year without a period, you’ve officially entered menopause.
2. Hot flashes and night sweats start fading
For many women, hot flashes and night sweats are some of the most annoying symptoms of perimenopause. The good news? As your hormone levels stabilize, these sudden heat waves tend to calm down. If you’ve noticed you’re not waking up drenched in sweat as often, that’s a good sign that perimenopause is on its way out.
3. Mood swings become less intense
One minute you’re laughing, the next you’re crying over a sappy song — sound familiar? Hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause can make emotions feel all over the place. But as menopause approaches, many women notice their moods start to even out. If you’re feeling more emotionally stable, your body might be adjusting to lower estrogen levels.
4. You’re finally sleeping better
Sleep disruptions are common during perimenopause, thanks to night sweats, anxiety, and hormonal shifts. But as your body adapts to the new normal, you may find that you’re tossing and turning less. If you’re waking up feeling more rested, it’s another sign that perimenopause is winding down.
5. Fertility is almost gone
While pregnancy is still possible during perimenopause, the chances drop significantly as ovulation becomes less frequent. If you’ve noticed your cycles are irregular or disappearing, your fertility is naturally declining as you near menopause.
6. Vaginal dryness sticks around (or gets worse)
Lower estrogen levels can lead to thinning and dryness of vaginal tissues, making sex uncomfortable. Unfortunately, this symptom doesn’t always go away after perimenopause ends — it can actually get worse during menopause. If you’re experiencing discomfort, it might be time to check out natural remedies for vaginal dryness or a hydrating treatment like Vag of Honor.
7. Your sex drive may shift
Some women experience a decrease in libido as perimenopause ends, often due to hormonal changes or physical symptoms like vaginal dryness. Others, however, find that their sex drive improves once the emotional ups and downs settle. It’s different for everyone, but if you’ve noticed changes in your desire for intimacy, your body is definitely transitioning.
8. Your weight (and how you carry it) changes
Many women notice weight gain, especially around the midsection, as they approach menopause. A slower metabolism combined with shifting hormone levels makes it easier to gain weight and harder to lose it. If you’re seeing changes in your body, it could be a sign that perimenopause is nearly over.
9. Bone density starts to decline
Estrogen helps keep bones strong, so as levels drop, the risk of bone loss increases. This is why osteoporosis becomes more common in postmenopausal women. If you haven’t already, consider getting a bone density scan and talking to your doctor about ways to protect your bone health.
10. Brain fog and memory issues improve
Forget where you left your keys? Struggling to recall words mid-sentence? Many women experience brain fog during perimenopause, but the good news is that it often gets better once hormone levels stabilize. Research published in The American Journal of Medicine found that brain fog symptoms like forgetfulness tend to improve after menopause.
What’s next after perimenopause?
Once perimenopause ends, you’re officially in menopause — which means no more periods, but also new challenges like maintaining bone health and generally adjusting to life with lower estrogen. The good news? Many women find relief from the unpredictability of perimenopause and feel more balanced in menopause. If you’re struggling with lingering symptoms, a doctor can help you navigate this transition smoothly.
