Perimenopause remains one of the least understood phases of women’s health, often leaving women to navigate confusing symptoms without adequate support. New research from Flo Health, published in npj Women’s Health in 2025, surveyed 4,432 women aged 30 and over in the United States to better understand this transitional period.
The findings challenge common assumptions about when perimenopause begins and who it affects.
Earlier Than Expected
The Flo Health study revealed that perimenopause symptoms affect women across a broader age range than traditionally recognized. While symptom burden peaked in women aged 51 to 55, the research found that 55.4% of women aged 30 to 35 and 64.3% of women aged 36 to 40 reported moderate to severe symptom burden.
“Healthcare seeking for perimenopause was highest among women aged 56 and over at 51.5%, but 30% of those visiting a doctor about symptoms were under 46,” according to the published research (Perimenopause symptoms, severity, and healthcare seeking in women in the US).
These findings suggest that many younger women experiencing perimenopause symptoms may not receive appropriate care or recognition from healthcare providers who expect these changes to occur later in life.
Symptoms Vary by Age
The Flo app’s research team, comprising over 20 scientists dedicated to women’s health, found that the types of symptoms women experience during perimenopause shift with age. Women aged 41 to 45 more commonly reported psychological and mood symptoms, while women aged 51 to 55 more frequently experienced vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes and other physical symptoms.
This age-related variation in symptom patterns provides essential insights for both women and their healthcare providers. Understanding these patterns can help women better identify when they might be entering perimenopause and seek appropriate care.
The Healthcare Gap
Despite the significant symptom burden reported across age groups, the study revealed concerning gaps in healthcare seeking. Many women experiencing moderate to severe symptoms had not consulted healthcare providers about their concerns, potentially missing opportunities for symptom management and support.
The research conducted by Flo Health adds to growing evidence that perimenopause education and awareness need improvement among both the public and healthcare professionals. When women don’t recognize their symptoms as potentially related to perimenopause, they may not seek help or may receive inadequate care when they do.
Research Methodology
The Flo Health research team conducted this cross-sectional survey with participants who explicitly consented to participate. Following strict ethical protocols and peer-review standards, the research provides valuable insights while protecting participants’ privacy.
This study represents part of Flo Health’s broader research program, which has engaged over 22 million research participants across various studies. All research is conducted separately from the Flo App’s daily tracking functions, with participants providing informed consent for their de-identified data to be used in specific research projects.
Moving Forward
As Menopause Awareness Month highlights the need for better understanding and support for women during this transition, research like Flo Health’s provides crucial evidence for improving care. The findings suggest that healthcare providers should consider perimenopause in younger women presenting with relevant symptoms and that public health education should address the full age range of women who may experience this transition.
The Flo App continues to provide evidence-based educational content reviewed by medical professionals, helping users understand their symptoms and know when to seek care. By combining rigorous research with accessible health education, Flo Health demonstrates how digital health platforms can help close knowledge gaps in women’s health.
As a pioneering femtech company that has garnered recognition for innovation, Flo Health remains committed to empowering women worldwide through data-driven insights and accessible technology.
Follow Flo Health’s latest updates on LinkedIn or watch their educational YouTube content for more women’s health insights.
