Menopause, or the ceasing of a woman’s menstrual cycle and periods, usually is completed when a woman is in her early 50s. Often called “the change,” menopause rarely involves a neat, sudden change. Usually, perimenopause starts in the 40s or even 30s with menstrual changes and some early symptoms of menopause, leading up to increasing symptoms and increasingly irregular periods. Symptoms vary by women and can include hot flashes, insomnia, night sweats, vaginal dryness, urinary tract irritation, and/or increased vaginal and urinary tract infections. Some women experience none of these symptoms, and each symptom can vary in intensity. Your Women First Care Team can help you deal with these symptoms on your way to menopause, which is considered complete after you’ve had no periods for 12 months.