Perimenopause is a natural phase in every woman’s life, yet many enter it without understanding what’s happening to their bodies. Unlike menopause, which marks the end of menstruation, perimenopause is the transitional period leading up to it, often beginning in your 40s but sometimes earlier.

This phase can bring a variety of symptoms that can feel overwhelming without the right knowledge and support. Let’s explore what perimenopause is, why it happens, and how you can manage it to feel your best during this time.

What Is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the time when your hormone levels—particularly estrogen and progesterone—begin to fluctuate as your body transitions towards menopause. These hormonal shifts can last anywhere from a few months to over a decade, and symptoms may vary significantly from woman to woman.

Common Symptoms of Perimenopause

Hormonal changes during perimenopause can result in:

Irregular Periods: Cycles may become shorter, longer, or more unpredictable.
Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Sudden feelings of heat can disrupt your day and sleep.
Mood Changes: Anxiety, irritability, and mood swings are common due to fluctuating hormones.
Sleep Disturbances: Hormonal shifts can lead to difficulty falling or staying asleep.
Weight Gain: Changes in metabolism and hormonal balance can affect weight distribution.

These symptoms can feel daunting, but there are ways to manage them effectively.

How to Manage Perimenopause Symptoms

1. Prioritise Nutrition
What you eat plays a huge role in balancing hormones and managing symptoms. Focus on:

Healthy Fats: Foods like avocados, nuts, and oily fish support hormone production.
Complex Carbohydrates: Wholegrains provide steady energy and support mood stability.
Phytoestrogens: Foods like flaxseeds, soy, and chickpeas may help balance estrogen levels.
Magnesium and Calcium: These nutrients support bone health and reduce muscle tension.

2. Move Your Body
Exercise helps manage weight, boosts mood, and supports overall well-being. Include both resistance training (to maintain muscle mass) and low-impact activities like yoga to reduce stress.

3. Support Your Mental Health
Hormonal changes can take a toll on your emotional well-being. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing can help you manage stress and improve mood.

4. Get Enough Sleep
Sleep disturbances are common during perimenopause, but establishing a bedtime routine and creating a restful environment can help. Limit screen time before bed and consider relaxing practices like reading or stretching.

Why Education Matters

Many women feel unprepared for the changes that come with perimenopause. Understanding what’s happening in your body is the first step toward managing it effectively. With the right support, this can be a time of empowerment and self-discovery, rather than frustration.

If you’re navigating perimenopause and looking for personalised strategies to manage your symptoms, I’m here to help. Together, we can create a plan that supports your body and helps you thrive.