Do you sometimes feel that something is wrong with you, especially with regards to your menstrual periods? Usually seen rearing its head at around age 50 (but sometimes even as early as 35), these perimenopause symptoms can sometimes cloud a woman's perception of things - what may seem normal to some may not be so for others. Spotting is one such issue.

For some women, spotting may be a regular occurrence; for others, it may raise an alarm worthy of concern. Not all women are made the same though, and the same saying goes when a woman comes under perimenopause's reign.

Spotting may range from very light to moderate to very heavy. But all spotting is directly linked to one particular symptom - that of an irregular menstrual cycle. (Take note though, that if spotting is extremely in excess, it would be wise to consult a doctor or your health care professional immediately to rule out any possible sickness.)

This is normal, as the main cause of this (and all symptoms thereof) would be a female hormone imbalance. The specific hormones responsible would be the 2 main sex hormones, estrogen and progesterone. It is said that having estrogen dominance is the real reason of the discomforts and hassles, but there are some who believe that it is the progesterone's fault. Nevertheless, whether it be a lack of either progesterone or estrogen, these hormones are the ones almost directly responsible for all the symptoms in the duration of perimenopause.

If you suspect that you are undergoing perimenopause just because you are having intermittent, irregular spotting episodes, then think again. The best way to confirm is to first make a diary or a journal of what you are feeling - for example, if you are having hot flushes, insomnia, unexplained weight gain (especially if you're under a strict diet), hair loss, night sweats, etc.

The next step is for you to setup an appointment with your doctor and - armed with your journal - you can discuss possible tests he may do to confirm that you don't have any underlying illnesses. Your gynecologist will best be able to tell you what you may do once you rule out disease or infection.

Being in perimenopause shouldn't be a scary thing. Once you accept that you will inevitably go through this phase, then it will also be easier for you to accept and manage the symptoms.