Menopause is a normal part of life for women. It's important to know the signs and symptoms and how to navigate life in this new normal. There are three phases of menopause: perimenopause, menopause, and post menopause. What’s The Difference Between Menopause and Perimenopause? Menopause happens when your ovaries stop making estrogen (the hormone that controls your menstrual cycle), signaling the end of your reproductive years. You’ve officially entered menopause after twelve consecutive months without a period. Perimenopause is the transitional period leading up to menopause. For most women