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

During perimenopause and menopause, the loss of estrogen—which plays a key role in protecting musculoskeletal tissue—can lead to inflammation and loss of elasticity throughout the body. — Holly Burns, Time, 30 July 2026

Research suggests women with ADHD enter perimenopause years earlier than those without the disorder and experience more severe symptoms during this menopausal transition. — Maria Godoy, NPR, 26 July 2026

Early perimenopause often brings irregular periods, lighter or heavier flow and hot flashes in about 40% of women. — Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 July 2026

Many women wait years to seek care because perimenopause symptoms are often dismissed by physicians and misunderstood by patients themselves. — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 25 July 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)