Anticipated age of perimenopausal experiences, stress, satisfaction, and health and well-being: observations from the Women Living Better Survey.

Being "off-time" alone had little effect on studied measures with the exception of poorer perceived health. Experiencing more noticeable perimenopause-related menstrual cycle changes or having more bothersome vasomotor symptoms influenced several measures, but there were no interactive effects with being "off-time." In contrast, those who were "off-time" and experiencing more bothersome volatile mood symptoms reported greater health stress, lower satisfaction with life roles and activities, and poorer perceived health. These interactive effects of being "off-time" and experiencing volatile mood suggest a need for greater attention to the link between volatile mood and perimenopause. Furthermore, anticipatory guidance for those on the path to menopause should include the possibility of volatile mood symptoms.