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Understanding the three stages
of the menopause transition
Menopause is not a single event but a gradual hormonal transition that occurs over many years.
It includes three stages: perimenopause, the menopause milestone and postmenopause.
Each stage can bring different symptoms and health considerations.
A natural progression. Clearly understood.
Stage 1: Perimenopause — when hormonal changes begin
Perimenopause is the stage when a woman's hormone levels begin to fluctuate as the ovaries gradually produce less oestrogen and progesterone. This stage usually begins in the 40s but it can start earlier.
Common experiences
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Changes to menstrual cycles
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Hot flushes and night sweats
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Sleep disturbances
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Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
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Mood changes
Learn more about perimenopause
Early changes. Recognised and supported.
Stage 2: The menopause milestone
Menopause is the point in time when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. It marks the end of natural fertility and reflects the permanent decline in ovarian hormone production.
Common experiences
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Hot flushes and night sweats
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Sleep disruption
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Anxiety or mood changes
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Vaginal dryness
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Joint pain
Learn more about menopause symptoms
A defined milestone. Care continues.
Stage 3: Postmenopause — life after menopause
Postmenopause refers to the years following the menopause milestone. Hormone levels remain low, and some symptoms may improve while others - such as vaginal dryness or bone changes - may persist or worsen.
Health considerations after menopause
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Bone health
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Genitourinary syndrome of menopause
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Urinary tract infections
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Skin and hair changes
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Weight and metabolic changes
Learn more about postmenopause
Beyond transition. Long-term wellbeing.
The details
To understand more about each of the three stages of change, including the menopause milestone, click on the three links below.
Our RESOURCES section provides a wealth of information about the symptoms you may experience on your transitional journey, including what causes them and the treatment options that can help.
Menopause is a gradual transition, not a single moment in time.
Understanding each stage can help you make sense of the changes you are experiencing and feel more confident about what comes next.
At ClaraSana, we guide you through each stage of the menopause transition with clear, evidence-based advice and specialist menopause care through our menopause consultations.