Understanding Perimenopause: How Daysy and Lady-comp Can Help You Navigate It

Perimenopause, often referred to as the "second puberty," is a significant transitional phase leading up to menopause, which is the point when periods have stopped for a full year if you are over 50 (for two years if you are younger). This phase can last anywhere from two to ten years and is marked by hormonal shifts that may bring noticeable changes to your body, your hormones, and - of course - your period. Unlike menopause, which is defined and can be measured more clearly, perimenopause can't be defined by any test.

When Does Perimenopause Start?

The transition typically begins in a woman's 40s, although it can start as early as the late 30s. Menopause usually occurs between ages 45 and 55, meaning perimenopause can begin well before you're considered "old". Early menopause (before age 40), medically known as Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI), is considered a separate condition with its own causes.

So if you are in this age group (late 30s - mid 40s), it's entirely possible that your body is already experiencing some hormonal shift. And that’s perfectly natural. 

It’s important to emphasise that perimenopause isn’t about aging prematurely. Rather, it’s your body's way of adjusting to life beyond reproduction, a recalibration of both your hormonal and nervous systems. 

How Can You Tell If You're in Perimenopause?

Unlike menopause, which can be confirmed by two high FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) readings taken a month apart, perimenopause doesn’t show up clearly in blood tests. Instead, it's diagnosed through age, cycle changes, and especially symptoms.

If you are experience more than one of these symptoms you are likely to be in this phase.

• Heavier or longer periods
• Shorter cycle lengths (less than 26 days)
• New or increased breast tenderness
• Waking up during the night, especially 3AM (anyone?)
• Increased menstrual cramps
• Night sweats before your period
• New or worsening migraines
• Mood swings before menstruation
• Unexplained weight gain

If you’re over 37 and noticing a few of these symptoms (and other causes have been ruled out), there’s a good chance you’re in perimenopause.

What’s Happening With Your Hormones?

The first major hormonal change in perimenopause is a gradual drop in progesterone. This often happens due to shorter luteal phases or more frequent anovulatory cycles (where ovulation doesn’t occur), even when cycles seem regular.

The loss of progesterone is the main cause of all the above symptoms.

At the same time, oestrogen may spike sometimes reaching levels two to three times higher than normal. These fluctuations can intensify mood swings, increase breast pain, and cause especially heavy periods.

A common misconception is that perimenopausal symptoms are primarily due to low oestrogen. In fact, low progesterone is often the main culprit. 

Can You Still Get Pregnant?

Yes — even during perimenopause, ovulation can still occur, and pregnancy is possible. That’s why understanding your cycle remains important during this phase.

How Daysy and Lady-Comp Support You Through Perimenopause

As your cycle becomes less predictable, understanding your body’s unique patterns becomes even more important. That’s where Daysy and Lady-Comp can be powerful allies.

These fertility trackers rely on your Basal Body Temperature (BBT) and are backed by over 35 years of scientific research and algorithm refinement. Even during perimenopause — when hormonal shifts create more variability — Daysy and Lady-Comp can help you:

• Track cycle changes and irregularities
• Identify anovulatory cycles
• Monitor luteal phase length (a key marker of progesterone levels)
• Stay informed about fertility status, especially if pregnancy prevention is still a priority

By collecting and analysing daily BBT data, these devices give you a clear picture of what’s happening in your cycle by offering peace of mind and empowering you to make informed decisions, whether you're navigating symptoms, considering bio-identical hormones, or just seeking clarity.

Supporting Women Is Our Mission

At both Period Wisdom Boutique we’re proud to be small companies with a big mission: supporting women at every life stage with science-backed natural options. From first periods to perimenopause and beyond, our goal is to help you understand your cycle and your health.

Final Thoughts

Perimenopause is not something to fear. It's a natural, necessary phase in a woman’s life. While the changes can be challenging, they’re also an opportunity to better understand your body and prioritise your wellbeing. With the right tools and support, you can navigate this time with confidence and clarity.

Want to learn more about how Daysy or Lady-Comp can support you during perimenopause? Get in touch with our team. We’re here to help.