Lower levels of estrogen in a woman’s body during perimenopause can cause:

• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Difficulty sleeping and tiredness
• Mood swings
• Problems with memory and concentration
• Breast tenderness and vaginal dryness (which can make having sex painful)
• Less interest in sex
• Problems with urination (Also see Urinary Incontinence)

These symptoms can be most severe during perimenopause. They can end once menopause happens and the woman’s body adjusts to the new estrogen level. However, some women experience symptoms, like hot flashes, after menopause.

Last Updated April 2023