On our Self Studies journey, we’re always learning and understanding with our community. There’s one topic which we haven’t discussed yet, but it’s a topic that we always circle back to, constantly. It’s a topic close to our hearts, as we both drift through our forties, one of us on one side of the forties spectrum, the other on the the other side. Both of us always asking about what to expect, “ I didn’t sleep last night”, “I had a hot sweat”, always pausing to think if this is something I’ve caused, the extra wine, the late night. Or, is this a sign that we’re onto the next adventure that is perimenopause. So many people often ask us these questions, what to expect? What product to use? What can support us?

So as this milestone beckons, for so many of us, we thought we should start talking about this a little more. And there’s always the question, where to start. For most women, the time of menopause, or the end of reproductive years, is signaled by many physical and emotional changes. However, before actual menopause begins, most women go through a transitional phase of decreasing fertility; this stage is often called perimenopause by doctors. Let’s delve into what to expect during this stage and how to navigate it with grace and ease.

Perimenopause usually starts in a woman's 40s, but it can start much earlier or later for some. During this period, there tends to be a fluctuation in hormone levels, especially that of estrogen and progesterone, which results in irregular menstrual cycles with many symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and changes in libido.

 What to Expect During Perimenopause:

1. Irregular periods: Your menstrual cycle can become irregular. In some cases, periods may come much earlier or much later than expected. In some women, it may also be heavier or lighter compared to before. 

2. Hot flashes and night sweats: Sudden onset of heat, with perspiration—this is very unpleasant during the night, as it leads to insomnia.

3. Moodiness: Fluctuations in the hormone levels produce impaired mood balance, leading to great variations in moods, irritability, anxiety, or even depression at some level of extremity.

4. Changes in libido: Reduced desire for sex or changes in feeling for sexual urge are pretty common perimenopausal symptoms because hormone levels change, along with a lot of other changes in the body.

5. Other Physical Symptoms: Some of the other physical symptoms may include vaginal dryness, changes in urinary habits, joint pains, changes in the skin, and hair.

To ensure that you transition through this phase, whilst juggling a career, family, kids, a never ending social life and the millions of things on our to-do’s, here’s a small coping strategy that we hope will make this situation a little easier:

1. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: This may help control the symptoms and improve the general health status of a person through regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, which includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and getting enough sleep.

2. Stay Cool: Layer clothing, use fans, avoid the food triggers of spicy and caffeine for hot flashes and night sweats.

3. Seek Support: Access support groups from friends, family, or even healthcare givers with the information they will give emotional support and in providing useful tips on dealing with the new changes in their lives.

4. Consider Hormone Therapy: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be effective for a woman to seek relief from her menopausal symptoms. Discussed with a health provider, though.

5. Natural Remedies: Some women may find relief from the signs of menopause through various natural remedies. Some of the remedies may include black cohosh, evening primrose oil, and even therapies like acupuncture, yoga, and mindfulness practices.

Menopause marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. While it may bring challenges it also offers opportunities for growth self-discovery and embracing newfound freedom. Understanding the transitions that our body undergoes, from perimenopause and menopause, each bringing its own set of changes and challenges. By educating ourselves about what to expect and exploring various coping strategies, we can approach this transition with confidence and grace. Remember, you're not alone on this journey—reach out for support, listen to your body, and embrace the changes as part of your unique story.