Perimenopause: What’s Normal, What’s Not, and Why You Don’t Have to Just 'Put Up With It'
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
By Rosie Buckley @rosiewithapen
Perimenopause is the stage leading up to menopause. During this time, hormone levels, especially oestrogen and progesterone, fluctuate, which can cause a range of physical and emotional symptoms. For some people, this phase lasts only a short time, while for others it can last for several years.
Perimenopause is something that doesn’t seem to be talked about enough. My mum went through it recently, and it seemed like she was struggling more than she was willing to admit. I hope this article shows people that help and support are available, and that they don’t have to just put up with it.
What’s Normal?
Perimenopause symptoms can vary from person to person, both in severity and number. Here are some common symptoms people experience:
Changes in periods: You may notice irregularity, missed periods, and changes in flow.
Mood changes: Hormone fluctuations can lead to mood swings and mental health challenges, such as low mood, depression, anxiety, and irritability.
Hot flushes: A sudden sensation of intense heat in the face, neck, or chest, which can often leave you feeling sweaty or chilled afterward.
Trouble sleeping: This is often because of night sweats or hot flushes, but not always.
Brain fog: This involves a range of cognitive symptoms, like problems with memory, finding words, and concentration.
Vaginal dryness: This can cause pain and irritation during sex and when you urinate.
Changes in sex drive: This may be reduced or increased.
When and Where to Seek Help
Not everyone seeks help when they experience perimenopausal symptoms. This might be because their symptoms are mild enough to cope with. At the same time, some people don’t realise their symptoms are linked to perimenopause, while others may feel embarrassed discussing them or feel like they aren’t serious enough to speak to a doctor about.
My mum didn’t seek help, even though some of her symptoms were severe; like many people, it seemed like she simply carried on and assumed it was something she had to put up with. However, many people do seek support when symptoms begin to affect day-to-day life. This might include:
Emotional Symptoms
Experiencing mental health symptoms like depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem can feel scary and hard to navigate, especially for someone who has never had them before. Don’t forget to lean on your support system, like friends and family. Speaking to a doctor can also help guide you in the right direction. Some people benefit from support groups for menopause or perimenopause, allowing them to talk to people going through a similar experience.
Physical Symptoms
Talking to a doctor or pharmacist means you can get professional advice about possible treatments and steps you can take to make symptoms more manageable. If you notice very heavy bleeding, speaking with a healthcare professional can help point you towards appropriate support:
Very heavy bleeding: While heavy periods are actually common during perimenopause, they can interfere with daily life and lead to problems like fatigue and iron deficiency anaemia. There are several signs that can be defined as a heavy period, such as if you’re soaking through tampons and pads every one to two hours, have periods that last for over seven days, or pass large blood clots bigger than the size of a 10p coin.
⚠️ Important Red Flag: Postmenopausal bleeding: Once you have gone 12 consecutive months without a period, you have officially reached menopause. If you experience any vaginal bleeding after this milestone, it is no longer a symptom of perimenopause. Postmenopausal bleeding could be a sign of an underlying health condition and should always be checked by a doctor urgently.
Caring For Yourself
There are several things you can do to look after yourself, including:
Eating a balanced diet: Eating well can make both your mind and body feel well. Foods that are high in calcium can be beneficial, such as milk and kale, as declining oestrogen levels can make it harder for your body to retain bone density.
Exercising often: This helps maintain heart health, muscle mass, and bone health. Just like eating well, exercising is good for both your mind and body.
Practising self-care: Find what helps you best. This might include journaling to express feelings, prioritising sleep and rest, or practising mindfulness.
Liberty Underwear
Liberty might look like regular underwear and swimwear, but it actually has layers of microfibre fabric that absorb menstrual blood and wick moisture away from the skin. The special fabric locks in the blood, preventing stains or leakage, making it a perfect companion for the unpredictable flows of perimenopause. Check out their ultra heavy flow period underwear that is perfect for this period of your life.
