Understanding the 5 Stages of Menopause
A Guide to Hormonal Health and Wellness
Menopause isn’t just a single event—it’s a journey that unfolds in stages. And while the experience is different for every woman, knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident, supported, and in control. In this blog, we’ll break down the 5 stages of menopause in a clear, easy-to-follow way. Whether you’re starting to notice changes or are well into the transition, this guide is for you.
What Is Menopause?
Menopause marks the natural end of a woman’s menstrual cycles, officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period. But the changes begin long before that, and they don’t end right away. That’s why understanding all five stages is so important.
Stage 1: Perimenopause
This is the time leading up to menopause—sometimes starting as early as your late 30s or early 40s.
What to expect:
- Irregular periods
- Mood swings
- Hot flashes
- Sleep changes
- Increased PMS symptoms
Hormones like estrogen and progesterone begin to shift, and symptoms may come and go.
Stage 2: Early Menopause Transition
Your hormone levels continue to fluctuate. You may skip a few periods, but they still return.
What to expect:
- More frequent hot flashes
- Heavier or lighter periods
- Fatigue and brain fog
- Changes in libido
This stage can last months or years—and it’s a signal that menopause is getting closer.
Stage 3: Late Menopause Transition
You’ll start to go several months without a period. Hormone levels drop more dramatically.
What to expect:
- Longer gaps between periods
- More intense hot flashes or night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Trouble sleeping
At this point, your body is adjusting to the lower levels of estrogen.
Stage 4: Menopause
Once you’ve gone 12 full months without a period, you’ve officially reached menopause.
What to expect:
- Periods have stopped
- Symptoms may continue, but often begin to ease
- Risk of bone loss and heart changes may increase
You’re no longer ovulating, but it’s still important to monitor your health and well-being.
Stage 5: Postmenopause
This is the stage after menopause, and it lasts the rest of your life.
What to expect:
- Most symptoms fade, but some may linger
- Greater focus on bone, heart, and cognitive health
- Hormone therapy may still be beneficial for some
It’s a time to prioritize wellness, stay active, and keep regular checkups with your provider.
Expert Menopause Care at Vigeo
We’re proud to share that Dr. Amy Seibert, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, MSCP is now board-certified by the Society of Menopause—one of only 2,500 certified menopause specialists in the United States. Her compassionate, patient-centered approach makes her a trusted partner for women navigating this important stage of life.
At Vigeo Care Center & Aesthetics, we’re committed to helping women feel balanced, confident, and in control of their health through every phase of menopause. From hormone evaluation and symptom management to personalized wellness plans, our care is designed around you.
Take the next step toward feeling your best.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Seibert, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, MSCP and discover how specialized menopause care can help you restore balance, energy, and confidence. Call us at (224) 241-8427 or click the button below to schedule your appointment.