perimenopause

noun

peri·​men·​o·​pause ˌper-ē-ˈme-nə-ˌpȯz 

-ˈmē-

: the period around the onset of menopause that is often marked by various physical signs (such as hot flashes and menstrual irregularity)

perimenopausal

ˌper-ē-ˌme-nə-ˈpȯ-zəl 

-ˌmē-

adjective

Examples of perimenopause in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The time leading up to it is called perimenopause, during which the body’s production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone declines sharply. — Laura Ungar, Los Angeles Times, 3 Nov. 2026

For its take on the market, chief executive officer Lana Elie-Meyers and chief operating officer Joseph Elie-Meyers wanted Phases to focus on women’s evolving needs, from postpartum and perimenopause to menopause and beyond. — Kathryn Hopkins, Footwear News, 3 Nov. 2026

Why This Matters During Menopause Of course, consistency can feel impossible when perimenopause or menopause enters the picture. — Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 28 Oct. 2026

Advertisement Recognizing perimenopause as a distinct life stage acknowledges that its symptoms can disrupt daily life, persist for years, and deserve treatment. — Sadiya S. Khan, Time, 26 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1962, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for perimenopause

• ahs
• baas
• cause
• clause
• claws
• coz
• daws
• draws
• flaws
• gauze
• gnaws
• haws

Medical Definition

perimenopause

noun

peri·​men·​o·​pause -ˈmen-ə-ˌpȯz, -ˈmēn- 

: the period around the onset of menopause that is often marked by various physical signs (as hot flashes and menstrual irregularity)