Hot flashes, mood swings, weight gain, and insomnia are commonly associated with menopause, a stage when a woman’s menstrual cycles cease. However, these symptoms can also signal perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause when the body undergoes hormonal changes.
Perimenopause occurs when the menstrual cycle begins to change, with fluctuations that persist for at least 10 months. Dr. Lauren Baker, an obstetrics and gynecology physician at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and certified practitioner with the Menopause Society, explains, “The formal definition is periods fluctuate by at least seven days for at least 10 months.”
A recent survey conducted by Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, which involved 1,068 women across the United States, revealed that 61% of participants believed menopause would begin in their 40s. In reality, many women experience symptoms of perimenopause in their 30s, while most will not enter menopause until their early 50s.
Experts at Ohio State emphasize the importance of addressing symptoms, regardless of age. Dr. Baker stresses that perimenopause is not a one-size-fits-all experience, which is why women should consult their doctors about any changes or concerns to determine the most appropriate treatment for their individual needs.
The survey also highlighted that half of the women (52%) believe diet and exercise can alleviate menopause symptoms, and healthcare professionals agree with this approach. “A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is crucial for bone health,” Dr. Baker notes. “Fiber and protein support weight management, and a diet high in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables is essential for overall health.”
Additionally, the survey found that one in three women are concerned about the long-term health impacts of menopause. Among the concerns related to reproductive aging, physical symptoms were noted by 25% of respondents, and 18% expressed worry about mental health. Notably, younger women (ages 18-29) were more likely to prioritize mental health concerns related to menopause compared to older women (25% vs. 10%).
“Menopause can have broader effects on workplace performance, quality of life, and overall health,” said Dr. Baker. “However, there are effective treatments available that help women not just survive but thrive during this phase of life.”
Survey Methodology: The survey was conducted by SSRS using its Opinion Panel Omnibus platform, a national, probability-based survey conducted twice a month. Data was collected from February 7-10 and February 21-24, 2025, among a total of 1,068 female respondents. The survey included web (n=1,031) and telephone (n=37) responses, and was administered in English. The margin of error for the total female sample is +/-3.4 percentage points at the 95% confidence level, with data weighted to represent U.S. women aged 18 and older.
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