Does Perimenopause Cause Joint Pain?

Joint pain is related to perimenopause due to hormonal fluctuations experienced during this transitional phase prior to menopause. As women approach menopause, their estrogen levels begin to decline, and these lower estrogen levels can contribute to inflammation and changes in the body's pain perception. Additionally, estrogen is thought to have an anti-inflammatory effect on joints, so reduced levels may lead to increased joint discomfort or exacerbate existing conditions such as osteoarthritis. Moreover, the decrease in estrogen may affect the health of cartilage and ligaments, making them more prone to wear and tear. Thus, women may experience joint stiffness, swelling, or pain during perimenopause as a result of these combined factors.