Myth Busters: “You Can’t Treat Menopause Until Your Periods Stop” — Wrong.

By: Dr. Karlee Tario ND

This one needs to be retired, fast.

Too many women are told they have to wait until menopause is “official”—meaning they’ve gone 12 months without a period—before they can seek support or treatment. But by the time that happens, many have already spent years suffering through symptoms they didn’t know were hormonal.

Here’s the truth:
You do not have to wait until your periods stop to start getting help. In fact, waiting could mean missing the window when support is most effective.

Let’s break it down.

What Most People Don’t Know About Perimenopause

Perimenopause is the transition phase before menopause—and it’s when most of the symptoms begin.

During this time, hormones like estrogen and progesterone start fluctuating wildly, even if you're still having a cycle. That rollercoaster is what causes many of the issues women experience, including:

• Heavy or erratic periods
• New or worsening PMS
• Breast tenderness
• Sleep disruptions
• Anxiety and irritability
• Brain fog
• Hot flashes or night sweats
• Weight gain and fatigue

And yet… women are told to “wait it out.” Why?

The Menopause Society’s Take

According to The Menopause Society, perimenopause can begin in your 40s or even late 30s, and symptoms can last 4 to 8 years before your final period. That’s a long time to “tough it out” without support.

The STRAW+10 system (Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop) confirms that perimenopause is a distinct and important phase—and it’s when most women first start experiencing disruptive symptoms.

Support shouldn’t be delayed until your periods vanish.
The right treatment, whether that’s hormone therapy, targeted supplements, or lifestyle support, can be introduced based on your symptoms and stage, not just your cycle status.

Why This Myth Hurts Women

This outdated idea leads to:

• Misdiagnosis or dismissal of symptoms

• Delays in care when early support could prevent long-term issues

• Women feeling unseen and unheard when they go to their doctor with real concerns

Your body doesn't wait until "the official menopause date" to struggle—so you shouldn't have to wait to get help.

You Deserve Better

Menopause is not a single moment—it’s a transition that can span a decade or more. The earlier you start tracking symptoms and getting support, the better your outcome.

It’s time to ditch the idea that you need to wait to be miserable enough before you get to feel better.