Is this peri menopause?

[Ohwhatbliss]

I'm 41 and recently have had some big changes with my cycle. I should say I'm not on any contraception. It's still regular as always but the PMT! I have never really suffered from it at all but it's no exaggeration to say the last 3 months I have gone completely batshit in the few days before my period started. Last month I almost decided I should leave my very lovely husband over NOTHING. My temper is out of control. It's only when my period starts I realise what was happening.

The second symptom is again completely new, incredibly sore boobs around ovulation.

My mum went through the menopause in her early 40s and I'm wondering if this is the start. If I am peri menopausal do I need to confirm this for any reason? And what can I do about the PMT?

Ouch on the boobs and PMT - I hear you! Mine definitely has been getting worse during my 40s, but I've found that tracking my cycle - I use Clue and track my bad days of PMS which it then forecasts forwards...somehow this makes it better because I can warn my husband/kids/clients!

I also find that if I make sure I avoid alcohol, eat well (less sugar) and get enough sleep in the run up to my period my mood is much more stable.

But the cycle tracking thing has been really helpful. And it definitely helps marital harmony