Navigating the profound journey of perimenopause & menopause is a uniquely transformative experience, one that often feels like an uncharted territory of challenges and changes.
This journey is unique for every woman, full of personal stories, challenges, and triumphs.
My aim with this post and my support group is not just to provide information but to extend a hand of empathy, recognizing the intricacies of your path and offering insights that empower you to embrace this transition with resilience and grace, so you can not only survive but thrive thought this chapter in your life.
Understanding Perimenopause
Perimenopause, often referred to as the "menopausal transition," typically begins several years before menopause. During this time, the body undergoes hormonal fluctuations as it prepares for the cessation of menstruation. While the exact duration of perimenopause varies from woman to woman, it is characterized by symptoms such as irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and changes in libido.
Menopause could quite possibly be the wildest hormonal time in your life, often referred to as puberty in reverse!
The brain and body undergo some dramatic shifts, as the ovaries shut down, progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone begin to decline, and the adrenal glands are left to pick up the hormonal slack.
Hello anxiety, reduced libido, and fatigue! While every woman will go through this inevitable mid-life shift, most women find themselves completely unprepared, uneducated, and uncomfortable with menopause. Help is here!
Let’s talk about what actually happens to women during menopause, because this is an often misunderstood time in women’s lives. As women approach midlife, sex hormone production slowly begins to decline over the course of 10-15 years, aka menopause!
During this process, ovaries hand over the job of making sex hormones progesterone, estrogen and testosterone to your adrenal glands. If you are like most women I know, your adrenals might already be taxed with everyday stress, family, work obligations, etc. When the added work of making hormones is given to adrenals, it often leads to a sudden onset of unpleasant symptoms—low energy, weight gain, hot flashes, fatigue, headaches, insomnia, anxiety and depression.
How to know if I am entering perimenopause
Entering perimenopause is a gradual process marked by various physical and emotional changes. While every woman's experience is unique, here are some common signs that may indicate the onset of perimenopause:
Irregular Menstrual Cycles: One of the early signs is a change in the menstrual cycle. Periods may become irregular, with variations in flow and duration.
Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Sudden episodes of warmth, especially in the upper body or face, and night sweats are common symptoms during perimenopause.
Changes in Sleep Patterns: Insomnia or disruptions in sleep quality may occur, possibly linked to hormonal fluctuations.
Mood Swings and Emotional Changes: Hormonal shifts can lead to mood swings, increased irritability, anxiety, or even episodes of mild depression.
Vaginal Changes: Perimenopause can cause changes in the vaginal tissue, leading to dryness, itching, or discomfort during intercourse.
Decreased Fertility: Fertility starts to decline during perimenopause, and women may find it more challenging to conceive.
Changes in Libido: Fluctuations in hormone levels can impact sexual desire and arousal.
Changes in Breast Tissue: Some women may experience changes in breast tissue, including increased tenderness.
Fatigue: Perimenopausal women may experience increased fatigue or a decline in energy levels.
Memory and Concentration Changes: Some women report difficulties with memory and concentration, often referred to as "brain fog.
Wondering if those common symptoms and menstrual changes indicate that menopause may be near? You can get a perimenopause test which measures hormones that are commonly impacted by menopause. Use this link to get 25% off your Perimenopause test.
Embracing Wellness
Although perimenopause can present its own set of challenges, it's essential to approach this phase with a proactive mindset towards wellness. Incorporating healthy lifestyle habits can help alleviate symptoms and promote overall well-being.
Here are some strategies to consider:
Prioritize Nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Certain foods, such as soy products, flaxseeds, and leafy greens, may help alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal fluctuations.
Stay Active: Regular exercise is crucial for managing stress, maintaining weight, and promoting bone health during perimenopause. Incorporate a mix of cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises into your routine.
Manage Stress: Stress management techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, and mindfulness, can help reduce symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings.
Seek Support: Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, and healthcare professionals who can provide guidance and encouragement as you navigate perimenopause.
Prioritize Self-Care: Make time for self-care activities that nourish your body, mind, and soul. Whether it's indulging in a relaxing bath, enjoying a hobby, or spending time in nature, self-care is essential for maintaining overall well-being. Check out some of my favorite self-care, skin-care and supplements to support you through perimenopause and beyond.
Embracing the Journey
While perimenopause may present its own set of challenges, it's also a time of self-discovery and empowerment. By embracing the changes and prioritizing self-care, we can navigate this transitional phase with confidence and grace.
Remember, you're not alone on this journey. Together, let's embrace wellness and thrive through perimenopause and beyond.
If you want to learn more about this transitional stage and how to not only survive but thrive through perimenopause, join my FREE 5 day challenge: Thriving through Perimenopause