Perimenopause is the naturally occurring transition period that takes place in women before the onset of menopause. It may begin as early as 35, even earlier for women who smoke. It is a temporary phase, typically lasting two to three years for most women, though for some it can last as long as 10 or 12 years.

This stage of a women’s life has not been talked about much, and a woman can find herself experiencing puzzling changes, and not know why. What is actually going on is a gradual decrease of estrogen.

The symptoms of perimenopause are numerous and can be severe. Below is a list of the most common symptoms, many of which can be relieved by following Ann Louise Gittleman’s ‘Peri Zappers’ treatment. More information on perimenopause can be found in Ann Louise’s book, Before the Change.



Menopause Facts:

The average age that menopause occurs is 51.

The median age for the onset of menopause is 47.5 years. For most women, the transition lasts approximately four years.

It is estimated that 6,000 women reach menopause in the United States each day.

Most women surveyed reported being the happiest and most fulfilled between the ages of 50 and 65.

Only 20 percent of women report a significant decline in sexual interest after menopause.

62 percent of postmenopausal women reported to experiencing “only relief” at menopause; only two percent said they regretted the change.