What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopuase starts before Menopause. Perimenopuase is basically the transition phase for women before they reach the complete phase of menopause. It can start at different ages for different women. For some women, Perimenopause can start as early as 30’s. For others, it can be in their 40’s.
What are some of the major signs of Perimenopause?
One of the biggest signs of Perimenopause can be the disruption of the menstrual cycle. This means a woman will start noticing changes in her monthly menstruation or period cycle. This could be reduction or increase in number of days before her period, the changes in the flow or other forms of irregularity in the cycle. Some of the common signs that a woman is entering perimenopause includes the following:
- Night sweats
- Hot flashes
- Vaginal dryness
- Trouble with sleep
- Joint and muscle aches
- Heavy sweating
- Irregular periods
- Mood changes
- Vaginal and bladder problems
- Decreasing fertility
- Changes in sexual function
- Brain fog
- Weight gain
- Depression
- Anxiety
The signs and symptoms will vary and fluctuate for every woman.
What to do if I think I have Perimenopause?
The first and most important thing to realize and accept is that nothing is permanent. Change is inevitable. We are born and we must die. In-between, we all go through multiple stages and transitions in our lives. As we age, our bodies will go through massive changes and transformations. We no longer can be today as we were yesterday.
The first step is to acknowledge and accept that our bodies will go through these changes. We will have to deal with the mood changes, the disruptions in our monthly cycles and all the physical and mental health changes that accompany it.
How to cope with Perimenopause?
Once we accept that perimenopause is a natural phase of life for all women, it is important for a woman to focus on her mental and physical well-being. Some of us are lucky to have a support system around us in terms of friends and family who understand while many of us don’t and have to deal with everything alone and in isolation. Whatever a woman’s circumstances, here’s how you can cope with perimenopause.
Talk to a Gynecologist
Once you know that you have entered the stage of perimenpuaose, speak to your gynecoplgost for advice and guidance on how to go through this phase. See if the doctor can run some hormone tests to check your levels and advise on what to do. A doctor might prescribe some multivitamins or medication to help.
Talk to A Friend, Family Member or Partner
Talk to the people around you so they know what you are going through, tell them how you feel and tell them what your needs are and what they should expect during this phase. Similarly, if you are a friend or family for someone you know who is going through perimenopause, remember to be kind and gentle. Support them, understand their situation and see how you can help them during this process.
Seek Therapy
Our hormones are changing during perimenopause which means there might be many mood changes and impact on our mental health. It would be a great idea to seek professional therapy so that you can talk about your feelings so they can help you through this process.
Exercise and Sleep Well
No matter how busy your life is, know that nothing is more important than your physical and mental wellbeing. Make sure you take time out to exercise, go for a walk and ensure that you are getting enough sleep. Be kind to yourself.
Focus on Your Diet
We are what we eat! Make sure you cut out all processed food and junk food from your diet. Eat fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains and drink more water. Cut out processed sugar and fizzy drinks from your life. Eat fresh, organic meals that are home-cooked.
Meditation Helps
Any kind of relaxation technique or meditation will help. It can vary from person to person. Perhaps just sitting in silence will help relax your mind. Meditation and yoga are a great way to help heal the body and mind. It is a great balancing act!
Talk to Other Women
Join a group or forum of other women who are going through perimenopause. Help each other out.
