--- title: The Importance of Demystifying Perimenopause date: 2022-11-30T03:00:00-05:00 author: OBOS Admin canonical_url: "https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/demystifying-perimenopause" section: Resources --- [Donate](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/donate) [Health & Sexuality Info](/health-info)# The Importance of Demystifying Perimenopause Perimenopause is often confusing, misunderstood, and lasts longer than many people think. Endocrinology professor and menstrual cycle researcher Dr. Jerilynn Prior addresses common misconceptions about perimenopause, including symptoms, age at onset, and even the medical definition of the word. > Most physicians and gynecologists say perimenopause doesn't officially start until a woman's menstrual cycle begins to change. But Prior says perimenopause and its symptoms can begin years before that. [Read the full article ](https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/perimenopause-jerilynn-prior-ubc-1.5721781) SOURCE: CBC • AUTHOR: Maryse Zeidler • LAST UPDATED: September 13, 2020 ![Jerilynn-Prior](data:image/png;base64,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) ![](/assets/img/monogram.webp)Topics - [ menopause & perimenopause](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/subject-area/menopause-perimenopause) - [ signs & symptoms of perimenopause & menopause](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/themes/signs-symptoms-perimenopause-menopause) - [perimenopause](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/perimenopause) ![](/assets/img/monogram.webp)### *Why You Can* **Trust Us** - We rigorously evaluate all content - We embrace a reproductive justice framework - We don’t accept ads or sell products - We reject funding from the pharmaceutical industry - We counter misinformation and disinformation - We address the social, political, and economic factors that affect health and sexuality [read more](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/why-you-can-trust-us) Share [](javascript:void();)[](javascript:void();)[](javascript:void();)[](javascript:void();) ##### More to Explore [Stories & ConversationsRead ## Sharing What I Learned about Perimenopause Nina shares how her experience with perimenopause led her to co-found Women Living Better, a resource that demystifies the menopause transition. ![Nina_Coslov](data:image/png;base64,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) Nina shares how her experience with perimenopause led her to co-found Women Living Better, a resource that demystifies the menopause transition.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-the-very-early-perimenopause) [Stories & ConversationsWatch ## Coping with Perimenopause JF discusses her perimenopause symptoms. She explains her difficulty with the healthcare system and finding a perimenopause specialist. ![My Story- Coping with Perimenopause](data:image/png;base64,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) JF discusses her perimenopause symptoms. She explains her difficulty with the healthcare system and finding a perimenopause specialist.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-coping-with-perimenopause) [Stories & ConversationsWatch ## Finding a Perimenopause Specialist JF recalls the research she did to find a perimenopause specialist in her area who would accept her insurance. ![My Story- Finding a Perimenopause Specialist](data:image/png;base64,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) JF recalls the research she did to find a perimenopause specialist in her area who would accept her insurance.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-finding-a-perimenopause-specialist) [Stories & ConversationsWatch ## Recognizing My Symptoms of Perimenopause on My Own JF shares the difficulties of living with perimenopause, a condition for which there is little research and no consensus on symptoms. ![My Story- Recognizing My Symptoms of Perimenopause on My Own](data:image/png;base64,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) JF shares the difficulties of living with perimenopause, a condition for which there is little research and no consensus on symptoms.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-recognizing-my-symptoms-of-perimenopause-on-my-own) [ResourcesRead ## CeMCOR: The Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research A broad collection of information about menstrual health. Topic areas include fertility, heavy flow, hot flashes, cramps and painful periods, contraception, and more. ![CeMCOR-The Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACAAAAAgCAIAAAD8GO2jAAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAEE0lEQVRIiV2WYa4jNwyDP8rOFr11b9HL9RAFirbbl5jsD2km2X3PMQZOTMqURI/++P03gARHDo6OdaITOTJlFBWSSpJUqqIKiaqUIlwErJj3CAnUoAcBIALzNJPm+ee/WQ+6fvbjlz1vpREjArk2RkQCocx+KZIk9MYKEgyEiJTem0QA2XXhkkCU6ApKpECSSDHQw1pBihDpXxTx7EKkmoTsim90MucQHW8GXRIRkqKKFCQq/R1Kga/YO+KQKAlNkF7Uh1bDUSNRIRFJKlCoWb0zUZ2Pzmc6wwnZK+fO85tDt0qMJJoTUJE0BLo1nRhFfM29chP8xIGuNLRKEsOqoe/wB/XeTJRYVnqFXX5x1dsPBNe/hLBUUtdVJKNC8BH+QJNgtT7pE/hMdU65XuhdmRIq6c55E4Dc1fomSKIoDknPI5Gf7/bIXeK6o5eQCnkeyurwSSR1E6Rrxqah3YyQXef10YMT+oVe3J3VElWLY02p5uoyJ0msJHEPksBe5/nhCYzmKnq/Stx6NU2LI0ktaDeUcHrESeiZbF0EujBQqQzV1aEPU9KHepOvoHbKmFi+wrdvia4cjBWUVFBT8rn8pqtAt4mobSpTQdalzHDYiiGb19dHZEVJKrJUBUuAmiaXJBq9MuET42CTg40PHj6Srefzh/CrqFLSfiWC1rsKKu8GQ1cDRPYFfXFcl8Lm+XVJUPRNUouy1ho//qjiUUofV0Q69iHQOfGRHR8lxDvvE5SqUqVlaiVRYGWQ1+UlrWQnfQyt0c05c4hzhjXe+XqiS6JaVGFTlm93gRUCFQqqJt2fJ2hZznnPrVWy/fXV6JJSR7VYZk1Ns4ORYUEtCirXvXNZpI0dm3NyTnw4r0wmsv31HNcpqSplLdcKK2wwPcuhYAUt6jbyIRh0O+c0DT6xiff579XuoBK1VK5lr2inzpyABQstOGtU6n4IjDWY48w4HGck8vb359WbpbJWsaKVOvFOHTiwmyNaXaVTSGMUb4KT47w+OOJ9vr/GV6Sq0lpZqWV2tMPmRw5daaifCHKcV3LM6z7HEJy7SlOlcm2zzE5tsvGjOdRCsZqgqwpC7CHo8F/OaxQj3uffi0DScpW4CHjApo68VQ+xxdIcQlc7t286Hf5NMBw+2/+4LxoVqoYw2zzCCz3wUT0UF6fYxTKleSPse8fOsU/yusZzhMLZ52+PoxVVYYldPKxX0uiuuOKDCxdLWn2FGmmc/yQ3wXNGq7T91xBUxQt29Kg8yt/QUVzJik9yyMLWTmxKUU2rmRxykheD/pU8k1c42fkzAVVcqe18w9+sX1bc6F1DjiwMDibFCkp/kuSEOQH3zJOc7DGzvuxeyVf4tc1Y0WIly1nWSVampfsFpA/QLzsmBwyGAyc0x+F/4+dhF0Tb3mcAAAAASUVORK5CYII=) A broad collection of information about menstrual health. Topic areas include fertility, heavy flow, hot flashes, cramps and painful periods, contraception, and more.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/cemcor-the-centre-for-menstrual-cycle-and-ovulation-research) [ResourcesRead ## Common Signs and Symptoms of Perimenopause This evidence-based, feminist resource aims to demystify perimenopause and normalize the symptoms that often start before periods become irregular. ![An image of an older white woman in a blue shirt lying on a bed with her hands on her head. On her night stand is a white fan facing her.](data:image/png;base64,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) This evidence-based, feminist resource aims to demystify perimenopause and normalize the symptoms that often start before periods become irregular.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/common-perimenopause-symptoms) [ResourcesWatch ## Conversation with Dr. Jen Gunter: The Menopause Manifesto An interview with Dr. Jen Gunter on rethinking menopause and her book, The Menopause Manifesto: Own Your Health with Facts and Feminism. ![Jen Gunter](data:image/png;base64,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) An interview with Dr. Jen Gunter on rethinking menopause and her book, The Menopause Manifesto: Own Your Health with Facts and Feminism.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/conversation-with-dr-jen-gunter-the-menopause-manifesto) [Stories & ConversationsRead ## Perimenopause: The Ugly, The Bad, and The Good! Our Bodies Ourselves content expert Ann Marie Meyer offers encouragement in facing the many sides of perimenopause and its symptoms. ![Headshot of Ann Marie Meyer](data:image/png;base64,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) Our Bodies Ourselves content expert Ann Marie Meyer offers encouragement in facing the many sides of perimenopause and its symptoms.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-perimenopause-the-ugly-the-bad-and-the-good)