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Perimenopause

The 10 Best Supplements for Perimenopause: Science-Backed Guide

Clara Siegmund
Clara Siegmund

Say goodbye to perimenopause symptoms with these 10 vitamins and supplements. Here’s what the research shows about which supplements to try, depending on your symptoms.

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Sep 25, 2025
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A selection of vitamins and supplements for perimenopause, including vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, B vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids, arranged on a table with fresh fruits and herbs representing the 10 best clinically recommended supplements for perimenopause and women’s health support.
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Sep 24, 2025
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Say goodbye to perimenopause symptoms with these 10 vitamins and supplements. Here’s what the research shows about which supplements to try, depending on your symptoms.

Perimenopause
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Say goodbye to perimenopause symptoms with these 10 vitamins and supplements. Here’s what the research shows about which supplements to try, depending on your symptoms.

The 10 Best Supplements for Perimenopause: Science-Backed Guide

Is perimenopause making you mentally foggy, stressed, and anxious? Are hot flashes driving you crazy? Are you tired all the time? The first thing to remember is: you don’t have to suffer in silence!

There are ways to get relief, including key vitamins and supplements that can help you manage these perimenopause symptoms and more.

We’ve rounded up the 10 best vitamins and supplements for perimenopause, all backed by sound scientific evidence. Read on to find out which you should consider taking, and how they can help ease your perimenopause symptoms.

Can vitamins and supplements help with perimenopause symptoms?

Vitamins and supplements do more than just help your body function. They can also help you manage some of the most common perimenopause symptoms, including:

  • Hot flashes and night sweats (vasomotor symptoms)
  • Brain fog
  • Fatigue
  • Emotional symptoms
  • Weight gain
  • Bone loss
  • Muscle loss
  • Joint pain
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Headaches and migraine

For instance, perimenopause vitamins and supplements that support emotion regulation (like magnesium, B vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids) may help stabilize perimenopause mood swings. Those that boost bone health and muscle strength (think: vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium) can help keep your body strong and lower the risk of falls and fractures.

Let’s take a look at the 10 best vitamins and supplements for perimenopause, ideal for calming symptoms and easing your transition to menopause.

The 10 best perimenopause supplements

1. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is first up on our list of perimenopause vitamins and supplements. 

Vitamin D is crucial for supporting bone health [1]. Remember: bone loss increases significantly during perimenopause and postmenopause, so managing bone health is an important part of menopause care.

Vitamin D also helps support muscles, and can reduce inflammation to relieve muscle aches and joint pain [1]. It may also contribute to keeping weight stable [2].

Vitamin D may offer support for mood symptoms and emotion regulation, too, since a vitamin D deficiency may be linked to depression, but more research is needed [3].

2. Calcium

Calcium is another great supplement for perimenopause.

Calcium is also essential for supporting bone health, strength, and density, particularly when combined with vitamin D [4]. Again, bone health management is key during perimenopause!

Some research suggests that calcium may also play a role in slowing and stabilizing perimenopause weight gain, although research is ongoing [4].

3. Magnesium

Next up among the best perimenopause supplements is magnesium.

Like vitamin D and calcium, magnesium is another key player in supporting bone health, and the more bone support during perimenopause, the better [5]. 

Magnesium may also help boost mood and lower the risk of depression and depressive symptoms [6]. Plus, magnesium helps prevent headaches and migraine, and may also help you get better sleep [7,8].

4. B vitamins

B vitamins can address a wide variety of perimenopause symptoms, placing this group squarely among the best vitamins for perimenopause. 

Vitamin B12 and vitamin B6 can help manage perimenopause emotional symptoms, including mood swings, stress, and anxiety. Both help lower the risk of depression, particularly in women [9]. Vitamin B6 also plays an important role in producing dopamine and serotonin, two brain chemicals that are essential for regulating mood [10].

Vitamin B12 may also help combat perimenopause brain fog, since low B12 levels may be associated with brain fog symptoms like difficulty thinking and memory issues [11].

Plus, vitamins B1, B2, B6, and B12 help convert the food you eat into energy, meaning these vitamins can help boost energy levels. This impact may be highest in people with vitamin B deficiencies [12].

5. Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are also among the best perimenopause supplements, offering a variety of benefits.

This group of polyunsaturated fats (the healthy fats) can help relieve depressive symptoms and anxiety in order to enhance emotional well-being and boost mood [13,14]. 

Omega-3 fatty acids also support your brain and can help clear perimenopause brain fog. Key functions like memory, word recall, attention, and information processing speed may all improve with this perimenopause supplement [15].

Plus, omega-3 fatty acids lower inflammation, helping to ease perimenopause symptoms like joint pain and swelling, as well as skin changes like skin inflammation and acne [16,17]. In the long term, lowering inflammation with omega-3 fatty acids also supports heart health [18]. 

6. Iron

For those who have an iron deficiency, iron is another useful perimenopause supplement.

Research shows that iron supplements can help manage tiredness (like from perimenopause fatigue) and boost energy levels [19]. When you’re more alert and ready to take on your day, you may also feel less stressed and more emotionally stable.

If you don’t have low iron to begin with, though, skip this supplement and talk to your doctor about other options for boosting energy. Too much iron can be harmful for your health.

7. Probiotics

Probiotics are next on our list of the best supplements for perimenopause.

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that help maintain a healthy gut microbiome. The gut microbiome, or the population of friendly microorganisms that live in your gut, plays a key role in physical and mental health.

Probiotics promote a diverse gut microbiome (the more diverse, the healthier and the better). This is especially important during perimenopause, when the composition of your gut microbiome changes. Nourishing a thriving gut microbiome with probiotics can help regulate digestion, bloating, mental health, and bone health [20].

Probiotics and the gut microbiome may even help balance your hormones. The two influence how and when hormones like estrogen and progesterone are broken down. This impacts the levels circulating in your body, which could ease perimenopause hormone fluctuations and relieve symptoms [20].

8. Black cohosh

Black cohosh, a plant, is also among the best supplements for perimenopause. 

Black cohosh may help ease physical perimenopause symptoms overall. It appears to be particularly effective for reducing hot flashes and night sweats, meaning black cohosh may keep you cooler when vasomotor symptoms try to crank up the heat [21].

9. Ashwagandha

The plant ashwagandha holds promise as a perimenopause supplement, and research is ongoing.

Ashwagandha may help lower stress and anxiety. It may also improve sleep, including how long you take to fall asleep, how long you stay asleep, and sleep quality [22]. 

Ashwagandha may also help regulate your hormone balance – including estrogen, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels – and ease related perimenopause symptoms. This could be linked to its influence on the endocrine system, which produces hormones [23,24]. 

10. Soy isoflavones

Last (but not least!) on our best perimenopause supplements list: soy isoflavones.

This dietary supplement is made from soybeans containing phytoestrogens (plant-derived compounds that mimic the effects of estrogen in the body).

Soy isoflavones may provide natural estrogen support, helping to regulate estrogen levels and overall hormone balance [25]. This perimenopause supplement may also improve night flashes and vaginal dryness [26].

How to choose the right perimenopause vitamins for you

If you’re interested in trying vitamins and supplements for perimenopause, it’s important to choose carefully. Work with your healthcare providers to ensure that you use high-quality, pure, and safe products, and that your chosen supplements are safe for you specifically (including for your medical history and current medication use).

Think about which perimenopause symptoms you want to address, too. For instance, the best supplements for perimenopause brain fog may be B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids. The best supplements for perimenopause weight gain may include vitamin D, calcium, and probiotics.

As you and your doctor build your personalized perimenopause supplement routine, track factors like:

  • Dosage
  • Changes in symptoms
  • Side effects

How to create your perimenopause care strategy

Perimenopause vitamins and supplements aren’t a fix on their own, but part of a larger care strategy.

To best support your body and mind on your perimenopause journey, combine vitamins and supplements with:

  • A nutritious, balanced diet
  • Regular exercise
  • Good sleep hygiene
  • Stress reduction
  • Activities and hobbies that bring you joy
  • Time spent with friends and loved ones 

Certain medications can also help you manage perimenopause symptoms as needed, including:

Best supplements for perimenopause: The bottom line

These 10 vitamins and supplements can help you manage perimenopause symptoms and get relief, so you can transition into menopause confidently and comfortably.

If you’re interested in including vitamins and supplements in your perimenopause care strategy, talk with your doctor about which options may be right for you and your symptoms. Working as a team ensures that your health and safety are the top priorities.

About the author

Clara Siegmund
Clara Siegmund is a writer, editor, and translator (French to English) from Brooklyn, New York. She has a BA in English and French Studies from Wesleyan University and an MA in Translation from the Sorbonne. She is passionate about literature, reproductive justice, and using language to make information accessible.‍

Sources

  1. NIH, Office of Dietary Supplements. (2025). Vitamin D – Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.
  2. British Menopause Society. (2023). Menopause: Nutrition and Weight Gain.
  3. Cheng YC, et al. (202). The effect of vitamin D supplement on negative emotions: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
  4. NIH, Office of Dietary Supplements. (2025). Calcium – Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.
  5. NIH, Office of Dietary Supplements. (2022). Magnesium – Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.
  6. Porri, et al. (2021). Effect of magnesium supplementation on women’s health and well-being.
  7. Pavlović JM. (2018). Evaluation and management of migraine in midlife women.
  8. Arab A, et al. (2022). The Role of Magnesium in Sleep Health: a Systematic Review of Available Literature.
  9. Wu Y, et al. (2022). Associations of dietary vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 with the risk of depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
  10. Field DT, et al. (2022). High‐dose Vitamin B6 supplementation reduces anxiety and strengthens visual surround suppression.
  11. Köbe T, et al. (2016). Vitamin B-12 concentration, memory performance, and hippocampal structure in patients with mild cognitive impairment.
  12. Lee M-C, et al. (2023). A functional evaluation of anti-fatigue and exercise performance improvement following vitamin B complex supplementation in healthy humans, a randomized double-blind trial.
  13. Liao Y, et al. (2019). Efficacy of omega-3 PUFAs in depression: A meta-analysis.
  14. Su K-P, et al. (2018). Association of Use of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids With Changes in Severity of Anxiety Symptoms.
  15. Del Moral AM & Fortique F. (2019). Omega-3 fatty acids and cognitive decline: a systematic review.
  16. James M, et al. (2010). Fish oil and rheumatoid arthritis: past, present and future.
  17. Thomsen BJ, et al. (2020). The Potential Uses of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Dermatology: A Review.
  18. Furman D, et al. (2019). Chronic inflammation in the etiology of disease across the life span.
  19. Vaucher P, et al. (2012). Effect of iron supplementation on fatigue in nonanemic menstruating women with low ferritin: a randomized controlled trial.
  20. Peters BA, et al. (2022). Spotlight on the Gut Microbiome in Menopause: Current Insights.
  21. Sadahiro R, et al. (2023). Black cohosh extracts in women with menopausal symptoms: an updated pairwise meta-analysis.
  22. NIH, Office of Dietary Supplements. (2025). Ashwagandha: Is it helpful for stress, anxiety, or sleep? Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.
  23. Wiciński M, et al. (2023). Can Ashwagandha Benefit the Endocrine System?—A Review.
  24. Gopal S, et al. (2021). Effect of an ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) root extract on climacteric symptoms in women during perimenopause: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.
  25. Khapre S, et al. (2022). The Impact of Soy Isoflavone Supplementation on the Menopausal Symptoms in Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Women.
  26. NIH, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (n.d.). Menopausal Symptoms and Complementary Health Approaches: What the Science Says.
perimenopause-periods
Should I still see my gynecologist if my periods are just "weird" but not painful?
Yes. Annual visits remain important during perimenopause. Your provider can help determine if your "weird" periods are typical perimenopause changes or something requiring attention. They can also discuss management options to improve your quality of life.
perimenopause-periods
How long do irregular periods last before menopause?
Irregular perimenopause periods typically last 4 to 8 years before your final period, though this varies greatly. Some women experience irregularity for just a few months, while others have irregular periods for over a decade before reaching menopause.
perimenopause-periods
Is it normal to have two periods in one month during perimenopause?
Yes, this can happen, especially in early perimenopause when cycles shorten. You might have a 21 day cycle, meaning you could have a period at the beginning and end of the same calendar month. Track these patterns to distinguish between short cycles and abnormal bleeding.
perimenopause-periods
Why are my periods suddenly so heavy in my 40s?
Heavy perimenopause periods often result from estrogen dominance. When progesterone drops but estrogen remains high, your uterine lining builds up more than usual, causing heavier bleeding when it sheds. This is common in perimenopause but should be evaluated if it affects your daily life.
perimenopause-periods
Can I still get pregnant if my periods are irregular during perimenopause?
Yes. As long as you're having periods, even irregular ones, you may still be ovulating. Pregnancy is possible until you've gone 12 full months without any period. If you don't want to become pregnant, continue using contraception throughout perimenopause.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Can you prevent perimenopause weight gain completely?
While you may not prevent all weight changes during perimenopause, you can minimize gain through proactive strategies. Starting strength training before perimenopause, maintaining consistent sleep habits, and managing stress can help your body adapt to hormonal changes more smoothly. Remember, some body changes during this transition are normal and healthy.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
At what age does perimenopause weight gain typically start?
Perimenopause weight gain can begin in your late 30s or early 40s, often coinciding with the first hormonal changes. Many women notice gradual changes starting 5 to 10 years before their final period. The timing varies greatly based on genetics, lifestyle, and overall health.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Does everyone gain the same amount during perimenopause?
No. Perimenopause weight gain varies significantly. Some women gain 5 pounds, others 20 or more, and some maintain their weight. Factors include genetics, starting weight, activity level, stress, sleep quality, and how dramatically hormones fluctuate. Your experience is unique to your body.
Is perimenopause weight gain different from regular aging weight gain?
Yes. While metabolism naturally slows with age, perimenopause weight gain has distinct characteristics. The hormonal shifts cause fat redistribution to the midsection, even if overall weight doesn't change dramatically. This abdominal weight gain pattern is specifically linked to declining estrogen and progesterone, not just aging.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Will the weight come off after menopause?
Perimenopause weight gain often stabilizes after menopause when hormones level out, but the weight doesn't automatically disappear. The metabolic and body composition changes that occur during perimenopause tend to persist. However, with consistent healthy habits, weight management becomes more predictable post menopause than during the fluctuating perimenopause years.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I take progesterone if I'm breastfeeding?
Yes, progesterone is generally safe while breastfeeding and doesn't significantly affect milk supply. However, always discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any hormone supplementation while nursing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Is it safe to take progesterone throughout pregnancy?
Yes, when prescribed by your healthcare provider. Progesterone supplementation in early pregnancy is safe and can reduce miscarriage risk in women with low progesterone or a history of pregnancy loss. Most providers continue supplementation through the first trimester (weeks 10-12) when the placenta takes over.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can progesterone supplementation cause weight gain?
Progesterone can cause temporary water retention and bloating, which may show up as a few pounds on the scale, but it doesn't cause true fat weight gain. Most women don't experience significant weight changes from progesterone supplementation.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I switch from pills to suppositories or vice versa?
Yes, but only under your doctor's guidance. The dosing and timing may need adjustment when switching between forms since they're absorbed differently. Never switch on your own, especially if you're pregnant or undergoing fertility treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Will progesterone supplementation delay my period?
Yes, progesterone keeps the uterine lining intact, so if you're not pregnant and continue taking progesterone, your period will be delayed. Once you stop taking it, your period should start within 2-10 days. If you are pregnant, progesterone helps maintain the pregnancy and you won't get a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Should I take progesterone pills orally or vaginally?
For fertility and pregnancy support, vaginal progesterone is usually preferred because it delivers higher concentrations directly to the uterus. For perimenopause or general hormone balance, oral progesterone often works well and is more convenient. Your doctor will recommend the best route based on your specific needs.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
When should I start taking progesterone after ovulation?
Typically, progesterone supplementation for luteal phase support starts 2-3 days after ovulation (confirmed by LH surge or temperature rise). Your doctor will give you specific timing based on your protocol. Some women start immediately after a positive ovulation test.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
What's better: progesterone cream or pills?
Pills (oral micronized progesterone) are generally more effective and reliable than creams because absorption from creams is inconsistent. For medical conditions like fertility issues, low progesterone, or HRT, prescription pills or suppositories are strongly recommended over over-the-counter creams.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
How can I tell if I have low or high progesterone?
The only definitive way to know is through hormone testing via blood tests or at-home urine tests that measure progesterone metabolites. However, symptom patterns can provide clues: anxiety and irregular periods suggest low progesterone, while bloating and extreme fatigue suggest high progesterone.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
When during my cycle should I test progesterone levels?
Test progesterone levels during the luteal phase, typically 7 days after ovulation or around day 21 of a 28-day cycle. This is when progesterone should be at its peak, making it easier to identify if levels are too low or too high.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the main differences between low and high progesterone symptoms?
Low progesterone typically causes irregular or heavy periods, anxiety, hot flashes, and sleep issues. High progesterone causes bloating, fatigue, intense breast tenderness, and depression-like mood changes. Low progesterone symptoms persist throughout your cycle, while high progesterone symptoms are most intense during the luteal phase.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
Can you have symptoms of both low and high progesterone?
Some symptoms like breast tenderness and mood changes can occur with both low and high progesterone, making it confusing. However, the timing, intensity, and accompanying symptoms differ. Hormone testing is the best way to determine which imbalance you're experiencing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can stress affect 10 DPO symptoms?
Yes, stress can worsen or mimic 10 DPO symptoms. Stress increases cortisol, which can cause cramping, fatigue, and mood changes similar to both PMS and early pregnancy. During the two-week wait, try stress-reduction techniques like gentle exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is it better to test at 10 DPO or wait?
It's better to wait until 12–14 DPO for more accurate results. Testing at 10 DPO often leads to false negatives because hCG levels may still be too low. If you absolutely can't wait, use a sensitive early detection test with first morning urine, and be prepared to retest in 2–3 days if negative.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does implantation bleeding look like at 10 DPO?
Implantation bleeding at 10 DPO is typically light pink or brown, much lighter than a period, and lasts 1–2 days. It's often just spotting when you wipe or a few drops on a panty liner. However, only 15–20% of pregnant women experience implantation bleeding—most don't have any bleeding at all.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Why am I cramping at 10 DPO?
Cramping at 10 DPO can be caused by elevated progesterone (whether you're pregnant or not), implantation (if you're pregnant), or premenstrual cramping. Unfortunately, cramping alone can't tell you if you're pregnant since progesterone causes similar symptoms in both scenarios.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What are the chances of a BFP at 10 DPO?
If you're pregnant, you have about a 50–60% chance of getting a positive test at 10 DPO. This means there's a 40–50% chance of a false negative even if you conceived. Chances improve significantly by 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What DPO is most accurate for pregnancy testing?
14 DPO (the day of your missed period) is the most accurate time to test, with 99% accuracy. 12 DPO offers 80–90% accuracy. 10 DPO has only 50–60% accuracy. For best results, wait as long as you can—ideally until 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is 10 DPO too early to test?
10 DPO is considered early for pregnancy testing. While some women get positives at 10 DPO, accuracy is only 50–60% if you're pregnant. For best results, wait until 12 DPO (80–90% accuracy) or 14 DPO/missed period (99% accuracy).
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you have implantation at 10 DPO?
Yes, implantation can still occur at 10 DPO, though 84% of women have already implanted by this point. Late implantation at 10–12 DPO is normal. If implantation happens at 10 DPO, you won't get a positive pregnancy test for another 2–3 days.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does a negative test at 10 DPO mean?
A negative test at 10 DPO does not mean you're not pregnant. It's very common to get negatives at 10 DPO even if you conceived. Your hCG levels may still be too low, or implantation may have occurred later. Wait until 12–14 DPO to retest for more accurate results.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you get a positive pregnancy test at 10 DPO?
Yes, but only about 50–60% of pregnant women will get a positive at 10 DPO. The other 40–50% have hCG levels that are still too low to detect. If you test negative at 10 DPO, wait 2–3 days and test again.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Can high progesterone cause weight gain?
Yes, elevated progesterone can cause temporary weight gain through water retention and bloating. This is a normal part of the luteal phase and early pregnancy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Does stress affect estrogen levels?
Yes, chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can suppress estrogen production and disrupt hormonal balance. Stress reduction through meditation, yoga, adequate sleep, and self-care practices helps maintain optimal estrogen levels.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
When should I consider medical treatment for low estrogen?
Consider medical intervention if natural methods don't improve symptoms after 3 months, if symptoms severely impact quality of life, if you're experiencing early menopause (before 40), or if you have fertility concerns. Hormone replacement therapy may be appropriate in these cases.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What are the signs that my estrogen is increasing?
Signs of rising estrogen include more regular menstrual cycles, reduced hot flashes, improved vaginal lubrication, better mood stability, increased energy, and improved skin elasticity. You may also notice reduced symptoms that originally indicated low estrogen.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Can exercise increase estrogen levels?
Yes, moderate exercise stimulates estrogen release and helps maintain hormonal balance. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate cardio weekly plus strength training twice per week. However, excessive exercise can actually lower estrogen, so balance is key.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
How long does it take to increase estrogen naturally?
With consistent dietary and lifestyle changes, you may notice improvements in symptoms within 4-8 weeks. However, significant hormonal changes typically take 2-3 months. Tracking your cycle and symptoms can help you monitor progress.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What foods increase estrogen levels naturally?
Foods high in phytoestrogens can help increase estrogen naturally. The best options include flax seeds (high in lignans), soy products (tofu, tempeh, edamame), lentils, chickpeas, whole grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice), and garlic. These plant compounds mimic estrogen's effects in the body.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What helps relieve hot flashes quickly?
Cool environments, layered clothing, herbal teas, and medical treatments like gabapentin or HRT may help—depending on severity. Lifestyle changes like reducing caffeine and alcohol can also provide relief.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Are there tests to confirm perimenopause?
Yes. Tests measuring estradiol, LH, and FSH levels can indicate hormonal shifts—but diagnosis is often symptom-based since hormone levels fluctuate widely during perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
How do I know it's perimenopause and not something else?
A doctor may recommend hormone testing (like LH, E3G, and PdG) and track symptom timing. Diagnosis is often based on symptoms combined with age and menstrual pattern changes.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What's the earliest age perimenopause can start?
Some women begin experiencing symptoms as early as their mid-30s, though perimenopause typically starts between ages 38-45.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Does perimenopause affect mental clarity?
Yes. Brain fog and difficulty concentrating are common during hormone fluctuations in perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What happens after the last sign of perimenopause?
After your final period, you enter postmenopause. You'll need 12 consecutive months without a period to confirm menopause. Many symptoms gradually improve, though some like vaginal dryness may persist without treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
When do perimenopause symptoms finally stop?
Some symptoms like brain fog improve after menopause, while others like hot flashes may continue for up to 10 years post-menopause. Vaginal symptoms often persist or worsen without treatment. Each person's timeline is different.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Is high progesterone a sign of pregnancy?
Yes, high progesterone is one of the earliest indicators of pregnancy. Progesterone levels rise significantly after conception to support the developing embryo and reach their peak during the third trimester.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Can you still get pregnant in late perimenopause?
Yes, you can still get pregnant during perimenopause as long as you're having periods, even if they're infrequent. Continue using birth control until you've gone 12 consecutive months without a period and have officially reached menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Do symptoms get worse before perimenopause ends?
Yes, most perimenopause symptoms intensify in the final 1-2 years before menopause. Hot flashes peak around your final period, vaginal symptoms worsen, and mood changes increase. However, brain fog typically improves in late perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
How long does late perimenopause last?
Late perimenopause typically lasts 1-3 years before your final period. However, the exact duration varies significantly from person to person. You've reached menopause after 12 consecutive months without a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the symptoms of high progesterone?
High progesterone symptoms include fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, weight gain, anxiety, depression, headaches, and food cravings. During pregnancy, you may also experience increased nipple sensitivity and muscle aches.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What are the first signs that perimenopause is ending?
The earliest signs include longer gaps between periods (60+ days), intensifying hot flashes that peak around your final period, and worsening vaginal dryness. These symptoms typically increase in late perimenopause before you reach official menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
When should I be concerned about high progesterone?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience high progesterone symptoms outside your luteal phase when not pregnant, or if symptoms include severe pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or rapid weight gain while on hormone therapy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
How do you test progesterone levels?
Progesterone can be measured through blood tests at your doctor's office or at-home urine tests that measure PdG (a progesterone metabolite). Testing is typically done during the luteal phase, about 7 days after ovulation.

About the Oova Blog:
Our content is developed with a commitment to high editorial standards and reliability. We prioritize referencing reputable sources and sharing where our insights come from. The Oova Blog is intended for informational purposes only and is never a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making any health decisions.