What to do if you think you may be Perimenopausal
Most women will start to experience the symptoms of perimenopause, gradually and over several years. Here’s my advice on what to do if you think you may be perimenopausal.
Perimenopause, a time of transition leading up to menopause, can last a few months or many years, with the average being around four years. Symptoms and experiences vary vastly between women. In fact, current estimates suggest that there are at least 34 different symptoms associated with perimenopause. The age at women start to notice symptoms varies too, with the average age being around 45 years.
What are the first symptoms of menopause?
For many women, changes to their cycle and periods will be the first thing they will notice (but not always). Periods may be lighter, further apart, heavier, or closer together; again, there is not set pattern with everyone experiencing perimenopause in slightly different ways.
As we have cells throughout our body that respond to oestrogen, the symptoms of perimenopause can be wide ranging and often unexpected as hormone levels start to change. Common symptoms include:
· Hot flushes
· Mood changes
· Anxiety
· Brain fog
· Night sweats
· Joint problems
What should you do if you’re experiencing those symptoms?
Familiarise yourself with the symptoms of perimenopause
Greater awareness about perimenopause and menopause means that there is now a wealth of helpful information and resources available to women who want to understand more about their symptoms. Research your symptoms and track them so that you can start to recognise changes and understand how they impact your daily life. This will be essential if you decide to speak to your GP and if you decide to go ahead with Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).
Visit Menopause Matters for more information on symptoms and to access their symptom score sheet.
Reach out to your GP
If you are over 45 years, your GP should be able to diagnose perimenopause without any hormonal testing (based on symptoms). If you are under 45 years, further tests may be necessary. Your GP will be able to discuss the options available to you, based on your symptoms and medical history.
To help prepare for this conversation, visit www.themenopuasecharity.org for some excellent background information, including a downloadable factsheet outlining what you can expect from your first appointment.
Focus on your lifestyle and behaviour change
Look after yourself. Have a look at your diet, your exercise habits, your sleep routine, your alcohol intake, your overall lifestyle. Following a healthy, balanced lifestyle is vital during perimenopause and can have a huge impact on symptom severity and control. If you need help with this, please get in touch to chat about how I can help you.
Get inspired by other women
There are some amazing, inspiring women who are at this stage of life and are absolutely owning it. Smashing it! Have a look on social media and make sure that you’re being inspired by women who are demonstrating that our midlives are just the start. If you’re not prepared to take Perimenopause lying down, you can join me over at The Badass Midlife Club; a free community where like-minded women come together to share information, support and inspiration.
Be careful who you get support from
A word of caution. Menopause is big business and there are plenty of people out there ready to capitalise on your suffering. If someone is promising to balance your hormones, chakras, or anything else, or wants to sell you expensive testing or supplements, I would be inclined to step away. And, if you would like to speak to an experienced, empathetic, and qualified coach, you can find me here.
Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash