Is this perimenopause

[clairem22]

I have had bad knee arthritis for over a year, my periods have been erratic, not had one for 8 weeks now. Prior to this I haven't used contraception for years, and I am really hot all the time and not sleeping properly.
Is this perimenopause, and if anyone has advice on what I can take then that would be great.

Could be. I'd get a check up. Many women have joint pains related to menopause and the disruption to your periods sounds like it's at least beginning. Look up the NICE guidelines re menopause and treatment. I had a merina coil in for years and had only mild symptoms until it was removed, then it really hit. Recon the merina was masking most of the symptoms except itchy skin and some flushes. I've been on elleste duet for around a year and feeling much better, some joint pains remain, but brain fog gone, temperature is regulated and not anxious. Periods every month with pain which I really don't like, but it's better than the other stuff. Hrt can be started early perimenopause to prevent the escalation of symptoms. Speak to the doctor