Am I in Perimenopause?
Perimenopause means "around menopause" and refers to the time during which your body makes the natural transition to menopause. It is the first sign of hormonal changes that occur around 8 to 10 years before menopause.
There is no exact age when perimenopause will begin, it is different for all women, but the average age is during your mid-to-late 40s, but for some women it can begin as early as their 30s.
You could be perimenopausal if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Irregular periods - changes in menstrual cycle length, flow, or missed periods.
- Hot flushes & night sweats - difficulty regulating body temperature, often accompanied by sweating.
- Sleep problems - difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early.
- Mood changes - increased irritability, mood swings, or depression.
- Vaginal dryness - decreased lubrication and discomfort during intercourse.
- Decreased libido - lowered interest in sexual activity.
- Urinary issues - increased frequency or urgency of urination, and incontinence.
- Cognitive changes - memory lapses and difficulty concentrating.
This is not a comprehensive list. You may be perimenopausal and not have hot flushes or missed periods. There are 48 known menopausal symptoms, if you are still unsure, take a look at our blog which contains a full list.
What to Do Next
It is important to track your symptoms, to record their frequency and intensity.
You should then book an appointment to speak to your GP or healthcare provider. Most GP practices now have doctors or healthcare practitioners especially trained in menopause care and treatment. They will also be able to check your overall health and conduct blood tests to rule out any other undiagnosed conditions, and discuss Hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
HRT replaces the body's estrogen levels during menopause, and can help to alleviate/manage symptoms.
Lifestyle changes can also help in managing symptoms such as diet and exercise. Karen Newby has written a great blog for us about how to support menopause symptoms through diet.
Our Take a Pause tea, has been specially designed to support the symptoms of menopause. Containing natural herbs and botanicals that can help hot flushes, brain fog, stress, uterine wellness and sleep.
Bone density decreases during menopause due to lower estrogen levels, which can lead to osteoporosis, a condition where bones are less dense and more likely to break. Weight bearing exercise and nutrition are key in maintaining bone density and maintaining muscle mass during menopause.
Perimenopause is a normal part of ageing, and understanding your body’s changes can help you manage this transition more effectively. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it is a good idea to consult with your GP or healthcare professional for a more accurate diagnosis and personalised advice.
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