Perimenopause, menopause, and the transition. We explain it all.

Reading time: 3 minutes

Some women are lucky and sail through it carefree, while others have to change their bedding every night. But what exactly is the difference between perimenopause, menopause, and the transition? What are the signs, and how do you know which phase you are in? In this blog, we will focus solely on women. Next time, we will talk about men versus the transition. Because yes, men also go through this phase.

Tip! Evi Hanssen's wonderful podcast: Bloedheet & Tranen (Hot Flashes & Tears). 

Luister hier
We'll outline the differences for you right away by explaining what perimenopause, menopause, and the transition entail.

Menopause: begins with the last menstrual period.
Perimenopause: the period before the last menstrual period.
Menopause: the entire period of transition from fertile woman to infertile woman.

How long does it all last?

The menopause can start as early as 35 and continue into your 70s. That's quite a wide range, but don't panic, because on average women go through the menopause for 7.4 years. That's still a long time, of course, and not everyone enjoys it.

In most Western countries, menopause begins around the age of 51. So perimenopause can start at age 35 and ends with your last menstrual period.

Signs of menopause

During menopause, the number of eggs in the ovaries decreases rapidly. Hormonal deficiencies develop, including estradiol and progesterone. These deficiencies change your cycle and the structures in your brain, reduce bone formation, cause fatigue, and affect your heart and blood vessels. Not a pretty picture. It is therefore no surprise that your body starts looking for sources of estrogen. And these happen to be found in fat cells. This often explains weight gain during menopause.

What you may experience during menopause

  • Heart palpitations
  • Irregular periods
  • Shorter or longer periods
  • Heavy bleeding during periods
  • Anxiety, feelings of depression
  • Hot flashes
  • Brain fog
  • Poor sleep
  • Joint pain
  • Decreased libido
  • Weight gain
  • Muscle pain
  • Breathing problems
  • Hair loss
  • Tingling in the body
  • Feeling faint
  • Insecurity
  • Concentration problems

These physical and mental complaints have been scientifically proven, so women who have to go through this are definitely not imagining things. Unfortunately, there is still a veil of taboo and shame surrounding it, which needs to be lifted. Talk about it with each other, express what you need, and above all, give yourself what you need. Is your body telling you it needs rest? Then give it that rest.

Another short list

  • Get enough sleep
  • Exercise
  • Meditation
  • Yin yoga
  • Eat healthily
  • Where necessary, take hormonal supplements in consultation with your doctor

Regarding hormonal supplements: in the Netherlands, you need a referral from your GP to see a gynecologist, and it is very important to mention hot flashes as a complaint. So even if you've only had one hot flash, mention it. 
Our Belgian friends have a better system in place; here, you can see a gynecologist without a referral from your family doctor, and hot flashes are not a required indication.

What Alka products can do for you during menopause

We highlight Alka® Acid-Base Drops and Alka® Spermidine. During menopause, it is very important to stay well hydrated. Hydrating with alkaline water is the best option available. This also dissolves acidic waste products. In addition, Alka® Spermidine is highly recommended, if only because spermidine is good for your memory.

Feel free to contact our Alka® Specialists, who can explain more.

1Zinc 

review star
9.2/10
Reviews
  • 9.2 / 10
  • Rated by 17,830 customers.
Thuiswinkel
Verified company reviews

Blij ! Met de Alka producten

Drink de kruidenthee al jaren Zeer tevreden ,nu heb ik de Alka Bitter ook gekocht ben benieuwd,

Annemiek, Helmond 1/15/26
Recommendation: Ja