Perimenopause is the two to twelve years before menopause. It can cause heavy periods, mood swings, insomnia, and night sweats.
Menopause (also called post-menopause) is the life phase that begins one year after the last period. The first couple of years can cause hot flashes, weight gain, and insomnia.
Perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms can be relieved by natural treatments such as magnesium, taurine, progesterone, and transdermal estrogen.