How do I know I am perimenopausal?
 

There are several different symptoms to note as possible indicators of perimenopause.

 

Hot Flushes                                                                        Muscle stiffness

Night Sweats                                                                     Hair changes, brittle nails 

Brain fog                                                                             Dry skin

Memory problems                                                           Itching skin

Mood changes – anxiety, depression                       Acne

Low motivation & poor concentration                     Wrinkles

Migraines/headaches                                                    Altered sense of smell

Breast pain                                                                         Dry eyes

Digestive problems                                                         Facial hair growth

Weight gain                                                                       Burning mouth

Loss of libido                                                                     Dry mouth

Vaginal dryness                                                                Frequent urination

Change in periods…frequency, intensity                Urinary pain

Joint pain                                                                            Stress & urge incontinence

Osteoporosis                                                                      Nocturia

 

As you see this is a varied list, and as I mentioned above, we all have different experiences, but the list in the table reflects the most experienced perimenopausal symptoms and these occur usually over a period of years before menopause itself is reached. What perhaps does not come across in the above list is how insidious these symptoms can be, meaning that they are sometimes missed as actually being a result of changing hormone levels. Women can find themselves referred for tests for palpitations, prescribed anti-depressants, prescribed repeat antibiotics, advised to have counselling etc. without anyone asking could this be the perimenopause?
 

Many women I have worked with talk about a loss of self-confidence, a feeling of invisibility, a questioning of their own self-worth, a lability of mood that is not usual for them, being exhausted, quick to anger and in tears at the next moment, experiences I can fully relate to as being part of my own journey but never once thinking these could be related to perimenopause. If we are educated to realise the symptoms of perimenopause then perhaps, we will access the correct support more efficiently, put in place the necessary lifestyle changes, and as a result prevent a prolonged, tiring and unhealthy journey into menopause.
 

This is a time to be proactive, educate yourself and get the support you need.

 

If you are interested in learning more about the Menopause Maze education programme and coaching for Perimenopause and Menopause, please get in touch.

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