Study: Perimenopause symptoms common in women as young as 30
Many women experience perimenopause symptoms in their 30s, but most delay treatment. Early awareness can improve care and quality of life.
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More than half of women ages 30 to 35 are already experiencing moderate to severe symptoms associated with menopause, yet most do not seek treatment until decades later, according to new research from UVA Health and the Flo women’s health app.1
The study highlights the prevalence of symptoms during perimenopause, the transition period leading to menopause. Many women in this stage mistakenly believe they are too young to be affected, leading to delayed treatment and prolonged discomfort.2
“Physical and emotional symptoms associated with perimenopause are understudied and often dismissed by physicians,” said study co-author Jennifer Payne, MD, an expert in reproductive psychiatry at UVA Health and the University of Virginia School of Medicine. “This research is important in order to more fully understand how common these symptoms are, their impact on women and to raise awareness amongst physicians as well as the general public” (UVA Health & Flo, 2025).
Study findings
Symptom prevalence and severity
The research analyzed symptoms reported by more than 4,400 American women aged 30 and older who participated in a survey conducted online and through the Flo app. Among women ages 30 to 35, 55.4% reported symptoms that met the criteria for “moderate” or “severe” based on the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS).2 This percentage increased to 64.3% for women ages 36 to 40. Despite these findings, most women do not seek treatment for menopause symptoms until they are 56 or older.
“We had a significant number of women who are typically thought to be too young for perimenopause tell us that they have high levels of perimenopause-related symptoms,” said Liudmila Zhaunova, PhD, director of science at Flo. “It’s important that we keep doing research to understand better what is happening with these women so that they can get the care they need”.1
Psychological vs physical symptoms
The study found that psychological symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and irritability, often emerge before physical symptoms. These symptoms peak between ages 41-45 and decline in women 56 and older.2 Physical symptoms such as vaginal dryness, bladder issues, and sexual problems become more common in women 51 and older, while classic menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and sweating peak between ages 51-55. The study also highlighted that over 90% of women experiencing perimenopausal symptoms seek medical care at some point.2
Implications for clinical practice
Need for early intervention
The researchers emphasize the need for increased awareness and earlier intervention for perimenopausal symptoms. “This study is important because it plots a trajectory of perimenopausal symptoms that tells us what symptoms we can expect when and alerts us to the fact that women are experiencing perimenopausal symptoms earlier than we expected,” Payne said.1
Long-term effects and common complaints
Furthermore, the study found that perimenopausal symptoms can last between 5-10 years and significantly impact daily functioning. Symptoms such as sleep disturbances, cognitive issues, and vasomotor symptoms, including night sweats, were reported at high rates. A logistic regression analysis identified key symptoms strongly associated with perimenopause, including cycle irregularity, frequent urination, and heart palpitations.2
The need for more research
Despite growing awareness of perimenopause symptoms, many women continue to feel unprepared for this stage of life. The study highlights the importance of further research and medical education to bridge the gap in knowledge and ensure women receive appropriate support earlier in their transition. Experts emphasize that healthcare providers should proactively discuss perimenopause with patients in their 30s and 40s, rather than waiting until symptoms become severe.
Additionally, the study found that many women hesitate to seek care due to misconceptions about perimenopause and menopause. Educational initiatives and increased access to resources can help address this barrier and empower women to seek treatment when symptoms first arise.1
References:
1. University of Virginia Health System. Young women suffering menopause symptoms in silence, study reveals. Eurekalert. February 25, 2025. Accessed February 27, 2025. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1074704
2. Cunningham AC, Hewings-Martin Y, Wickham AP, et al. Perimenopause symptoms, severity, and healthcare seeking in women in the US. npj Womens Health 3, 12 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s44294-025-00061-3
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