Benjamin Franklin famously said “In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes,” but if you have a period, we can confidently tack on “and menopause” to that quote.

 

Menopause comes for everyone who experiences periods. Menopause occurs when you have not had a period for 12 consecutive months, and it typically happens between age 45 to 55. And just like the awkward transition of puberty leading to the start of your period, menopause can bring with it a bit of an awkward transition as well. This awkward transition is known as perimenopause.

 

Perimenopause can begin anywhere from the mid-30s to mid-50s. It may last just a few months or as long as several years. (Our bodies are never predictable, are they?) In fact, perimenopause is sometimes described as the time when periods stop being predictable. During perimenopause, your periods may become more frequent or less frequent. They may be heavier or lighter. They may be longer or shorter. Basically, that familiar companion you’ve had for decades just… changes.

 

One curious phenomenon associated with perimenopause is the “flash period,” depicted by Charlotte in the Sex and the City reboot series “And Just Like That…” A flash period occurs when you’ve gone months without a period and think it’s gone for good, only for it to show back up unexpectedly. It may show up as light spotting, or a full-blown five-alarm period. Either way, you definitely don’t remember inviting it to the party.

 

Flash periods aren’t the only fun symptom associated with perimenopause. Perimenopause may cause other symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, sleep issues, urinary urgency, and mood changes such as depression or irritability. But don’t worry, the finish line is in sight! Once you have gone 12 consecutive months without a period, you are officially considered menopausal. They should make a trophy for that!

 

So, you may be wondering; “How can I go about my daily life knowing that bleeding can strike at any moment?” Fret not, leakproof underwear are here for you. You may have heard of period underwear, but did you know that it also moonlights as sweatproof underwear, pee-proof underwear, and all around leakproof panties? It is comfortable enough to wear daily so you are protected, no matter what perimenopause throws your way.