Perimenopause

What is Perimenopause?

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The Perimenopause is the transition into menopause. It usually starts for women in their mid 40s but in some cases it can start in their 30s. The average length of perimenopause is around four years but for some women this stage may last only a few months or continue for up to 10 years.

 

Perimenopause ends when the ovaries have stopped producing eggs and a woman has gone 12 months without having a period. In the last 1-2 years of perimenopause the drop in oestrogen speeds up and this is often when women suffer more with their symptoms.

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Symptoms and signs of perimenopause

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Unfortunately, many of perimenopause symptoms are the same as the menopause and include hot flushes, breast tenderness, irregular periods, weight gain and fatigue. 

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What can I do to combat the symptoms?

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As you enter perimenopause it can be very easy to reach for the very things you should be avoiding. Many of us like to unwind and relax with a few glasses of our favourite tipple but alcohol is actually something we should be cutting back on. The reason for this is that it can trigger the symptoms you’re looking to avoid like hot flushes, insomnia, weight gain and night sweats.

 

Fatigue is a common symptom and can make it harder to have the motivation to exercise, but you need to ensure you exercise regularly. It will help to reduce stress, improve your sleep and maintain your weight. Another tip is to go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day.  

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Make sure you have enough calcium in your diet as when your oestrogen levels drop it increases your risk of osteoporosis. It is best to get this from foods like broccoli, kale and leafy greens rather than dairy products.

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Get yourself to a stable and appropriate body weight for you and stay there.

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