Perimenopause 101: The First Signs, Symptoms, and How to Feel Like Yourself Again

One morning, I was making breakfast for my daughters, Leah and Summer. As I scrambled the eggs, I suddenly felt my heart racing. Then I panicked because I thought something was wrong. I took a deep breath, trying to shake off the feeling, and then it was over 10 minutes later. Leah, my 10-year-old, asked, "Mum, are you sick?" I smiled and said, "No, sweetie, it’s just something called perimenopause". "What's perimenopause?" "My body playing tricks on me."

If you came across this article, chances are and you’re in your 40s or late 30s, you might have noticed some strange changes in your body and mood, and are not exactly sure what is going on. You feel something is off, but cant put your finger on it. 

Don’t fret - you might just be entering perimenopause...

What Exactly Is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional period leading up to menopause, when your ovaries gradually start producing less estrogen. This phase can last anywhere from a few months to over a decade, usually starting either in your late 30's and early 40s. Think of it as your body’s 'second puberty', and as a way of giving you a heads-up that menopause is on the horizon.

Spotting the Symptoms

Perimenopause can bring a wide array of symptoms. Here are some common ones to look out for:

1. Irregular Periods: Your menstrual cycle might start to play tricks on you - coming and going as it pleases, sometimes heavier or lighter than usual and days between cycles begin to be further apart.

2. Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Sudden waves of heat that make you feel like you’ve been transported to a desert can strike at any time, often accompanied by night sweats.

3. Sleep Disturbances: Finding yourself wide awake at 3am? Then finding it hard to fall asleep? Hormonal changes might be making it harder for you to get a good night's sleep. Or it could be stress related where your body is making excess cortisol activating your flight or fight response.

4. Mood Swings: Feeling more emotional or irritable? Mood swings are a common part of perimenopause, thanks to fluctuating hormone levels.

   
   

5. Weight Gain and Slower Metabolism: Notice the scale creeping up? Hormonal shifts can slow down your metabolism and make it easier to gain weight.

6. Decreased Libido: Changes in your sex drive are common. You might find your interest in sex waning or fluctuating.

7. Vaginal Dryness: Lower estrogen levels can lead to dryness, itching, and discomfort during sex.

8. Brain Fog: Struggling to concentrate or remember things? Hormonal changes can affect your cognitive functions, too.

Sounds horrific doesn't?!

In her book Hormone Repair Manual by Lara Briden, she says:

You have permission to feel what you feel and not apologise or feel the need to explain yourself. In fact, the freedom to not apologise or people-please might be one of the best things about second puberty.

Solutions to Navigate Perimenopause

Here’s the good news (hooray!) I discovered that there are plenty of ways to manage these symptoms naturally and not necessarily resort to things like HRT which stands for Hormone Replacement Therapy and keep living your best life. It does take a little while, but in time, you will be glad you started implementing these solutions:

1. Healthy Eating Habits

• What to Eat: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
• Why It Helps: Nutrient-rich foods support hormone production, help manage weight, and improve overall health.
• The Menopause Diet: Recipes to reset the body and blast body fat by Faye James is a good start. 
  

2. Regular Exercise

• What to Do: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Activities like walking, yoga, and strength training are great options.
• Why It Helps: Exercise boosts mood, helps control weight, and promotes better sleep.
  
  

3. Sleep Hygiene

• What to Try: Maintain a regular sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoid screens before bed.
• Why It Helps: Good sleep habits can improve sleep quality and help combat insomnia.

4. Stress Management

• What to Practice: Techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can reduce stress. Essential oils such as Melissa can help. This guide should be helpful
• Why It Helps: Reducing stress can improve mood and overall well-being.

5. Stay Hydrated

• What to Do: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Why It Helps: Staying hydrated can help with symptoms like bloating and dryness.

6. Talk to Your Doctor

• What to Discuss: If symptoms are severe, discuss hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or other medications with your doctor as a last resort. This guide on what to ask your doctor can help
• Why It Helps: Professional medical advice can provide personalised solutions and relief.

Embracing the Change

It’s a journey as unique as each of us, but knowing we’re in this together makes it a little easier. To all the women navigating this wild ride of perimenopause, remember: you’re not alone. Lean into the support of friends, savor the little joys, and never forget to laugh – sometimes, it’s the best medicine of all.

Want more tips and guidance as you embrace this transition? Subscribe to The Midlife Flow Insider and join our community. 

I'M READY TO BIOHACK MY PERIMENOPAUSE!