Peri-menopause is actually the name for the 2 to 6 years it takes for the body to stop producing as much estrogen and other reproductive hormones and it is only natural for women to experience menopause in their lives.  Many people think that menopause is the time when a woman's periods begin to decrease and her production of reproductive hormones slow. Menopause is actually the time from the last period counting forward twelve months. It is really important to know the signs of menopause and be prepared of the steps to take in order to alleviate its symptoms.