Everyone will have their own unique journey with perimenopause and menopause. Many people require additional support to manage symptoms.

Symptoms​

Common symptoms and changes you may have with perimenopause and menopause include:

• hot flashes and night sweats
• headaches, migraines, or dizziness
• dry mouth and gums, and changes to teeth
• changes in body odour
• heart beating fast or irregularly (heart palpitations)
• period changes
• weight gain and muscle loss
• joint and body aches
• fatigue
• hair changes
• dry and itchy skin and eyes
• vaginal dryness, burning, or itching
• bladder control issues
• urinary tract infections
• decreased desire for sex (lower libido) or experiencing discomfort or pain during sex
• anxiety, depression, and panic attacks
• mood swings, not feeling like yourself, and low confidence
• trouble sleeping
• trouble finding words or trouble remembering things (brain fog)

As you transition into menopause, some of the symptoms of perimenopause may shift. Some symptoms may fade, some may stay the same, and others may become worse.

Getting ready for appointments

Depending on your symptoms, you may need to plan for multiple appointments with your healthcare team. Your healthcare providers understand that the symptoms you are experiencing may be hard to talk about, and they are there to support you.

To get ready for your appointments:

• Use menopause resources like Menopause and U to help improve your understanding of perimenopause and menopause.
• Complete a 6-question tool called the MQ6 to help you start a conversation with your healthcare team.
• Write down how you feel, your symptoms, when they started, how often symptoms happen, and what makes your symptoms better or worse. Use a symptom tracker (PDF) to help you remember information about your symptoms. The Menopause Foundation of Canada also has a symptom tracker specific to perimenopause and menopause.
• Try some lifestyle strategies to help with your symptoms and write down if they work and how they make you feel.
• Make a list of your questions and concerns. When you’re done, mark the things that are most important to you.
• Make a list of the prescription and non-prescription (over-the-counter) medicines you use, including any vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
• Make sure your health screening tests, like pap tests, cervical screening tests, and mammograms, are up to date.
• Consider bringing a family member or friend to support you. They can help you ask questions, write down instructions, and remember explanations.
• Bring a pen and paper and plan to write notes during the visit. Or you can record the conversation using your phone or an app like the Alberta Health Services My Care Conversations app.