Perimenopause 101: What’s Really Happening in Your Body

Perimenopause. You’ve probably heard the word whispered here and there, but what does it really mean? For many women, this stage can feel like an uncharted territory full of surprise symptoms and unanswered questions. The truth is, perimenopause is a normal, natural transition and the more you know, the more empowered you’ll feel as your body changes.

At Drip Drop IV Hydration & Wellness, we believe women deserve open conversations, evidence-based resources, and support at every stage. Let’s break it down together.

What is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause, sometimes called the menopausal transition, begins when your menstrual cycle starts to change from its usual pattern. Doctors define the start as when cycles vary by 7 days or more from your normal rhythm. This stage continues until you’ve gone 12 months without a period (the official definition of menopause).

On average, menopause occurs around age 51–52, so most women notice perimenopausal changes in their mid to late 40s, though it can start earlier. This stage usually lasts about 4 years, but it can be shorter or longer.

What’s Happening in Your Hormones?

Your ovaries are winding down their regular rhythm, but not in a smooth, straight line. Instead, hormones like estrogen and progesterone fluctuate, sometimes spiking, sometimes dipping. At the same time, FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) gradually rises as your body tries to stimulate ovulation but levels are so unpredictable that one blood test can’t reliably “diagnose” perimenopause. This is one reason why talking about the transition openly and early can help women prepare their bodies!

Common Symptoms (And Why They Happen)

Not every woman experiences the same symptoms, but here are some of the most common changes during this stage:

• Cycle changes: shorter or longer cycles, skipped periods, heavier or lighter bleeding

• Temperature shifts: hot flashes and night sweats

• Sleep struggles: trouble falling or staying asleep

• Mood changes: irritability, anxiety, or low mood

• Cognitive changes: brain fog or forgetfulness

• Vaginal & sexual health: dryness, discomfort, lower libido

What’s Normal vs. When to Call Your Clinician

While cycle shifts are expected, there are certain red flags to keep in mind:

• Very heavy or prolonged bleeding

• Bleeding between periods

• Bleeding after you’ve gone 12 months without a period

• Symptoms that severely impact daily life

If you notice any of these, reach out to your healthcare provider. It’s always better to check in and be proactive, then wait.

Ways to care for your body before and during this transitional time.

Perimenopause isn’t something to “fix”, it’s something to support. Treatment is highly individual, and your care plan may include:

• Lifestyle strategies: hydration, balanced nutrition, stress management, exercise

• Medical support: hormone therapy (for some women), or non-hormonal medications with evidence for symptom relief

• Complementary support: IV hydration or vitamin therapy to ease fatigue, support sleep, and balance nutrient levels

• Prepare your body and bones by ensuring you are getting enough calcium and doing weight lifting or resistence training to strength your core, hips and bones for the future.

Here at Drip Drop, we are all women, some nearing the age where these changes start, which is why we are so passionate about sharing researched facts and having open conversations.

Perimenopause can feel overwhelming, but knowledge is power. Understanding what’s happening helps you prepare, plan, and partner with your provider. And remember, you’re not in this alone. At Drip Drop, we’re here to support women (any men, just not regarding this) through every stage of life with compassion, care, and a touch of science-backed empowerment.