Perimenopause: Ages, Stages, and Signs to Watch For

Perimenopause—that mysterious phase of life that can feel like a rollercoaster ride through a funhouse of hormonal changes.

If you’re a woman who’s ever felt like your body is playing tricks on you, you’re not alone!

That’s why I wanted to share what to watch for when it comes to the ages, stages, and signs of perimenopause, along with some unconventional tips to navigate this journey with grace (and a good sense of humor).

WHAT IS PERIMENOPAUSE?

Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, typically starting in a woman’s 30s or 40s and lasting until menopause—the time when your periods stop completely.

The average age for menopause is 51, but perimenopause can last anywhere from a few months to over a decade.

Yes, you read that right—an entire decade! It’s like preparing for a marathon, but instead, you’re just trying to figure out why your jeans suddenly feel tighter.

Signs and Symptoms of Perimenopause

As your body enters perimenopause, you might notice a bunch of different signs and symptoms. Here are some common (and not-so-common) ones to be aware of:

1. Your cycle may become unpredictable: with periods that are shorter, longer, heavier, or lighter than usual. It’s like your uterus is trying out for a role in a drama series!

2. Sudden bursts of heat (aka hot flashes) that can feel like you’re standing too close to a bonfire. You might find yourself fanning your face in the middle of a meeting, wondering if you’ve accidentally walked into a sauna.

3. If you wake up drenched in sweat, it’s not because you’re having a nightmare. Night sweats can be just as disruptive as hot flashes, leaving you feeling like you’ve just completed a triathlon in your sleep.

4. One minute you’re laughing at a funny meme, and the next, you’re crying over a commercial. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to mood swings; emotional ups and downs that can rival a soap opera.

5. Good luck getting a full night’s sleep! Insomnia can become your new best friend, leaving you wondering if you’ve involuntarily joined a late-night rave club.

6. If you’re feeling drier than the Sahara Desert, it might be vaginal dryness; a common symptom of perimenopause due to decreased estrogen levels.

7. If your body is suddenly storing fat like a squirrel preparing for winter, it’s likely due to hormonal changes affecting your metabolism.

WHAT’S HAPPENING WITH YOUR HORMONES?

During perimenopause, your hormone levels can be all over the place. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening with estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone:

– Estrogen: Healthy estrogen levels usually range from 30 to 400 pg/mL, depending on where you are in your cycle. During perimenopause, estrogen levels can fluctuate wildly, leading to the symptoms I mentioned above plus, others like chronic inflammation and joint pain.

– Progesterone: Healthy progesterone levels are usually between 5 to 20 ng/mL during the luteal phase of your cycle. In perimenopause, progesterone levels often drop, which can be a huge contributor to irregular periods and mood swings.

– Testosterone: While often thought of as a male hormone, women also produce testosterone. Healthy levels range from 15 to 70 ng/dL. During perimenopause, testosterone levels can decline too, leading to lower libido and energy.

A study published in the National Institutes of Health found that most women experience significant hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause, which confirms what women have been saying for years.

UNCONVENTIONAL TIPS TO NAVIGATE PERIMENOPAUSE HOLISTICALLY

Now that the signs and symptoms have been covered, let me fill you in on some unconventional tips to help you navigate this phase of life:

EMBRACE THE POWER OF HERBS

Think about adding herbs like black cohosh, red clover and phytoestrogens like turmeric into your life.

These natural remedies have been used for centuries to help balance hormones. Just be sure to consult with a practitioner before diving in!

DANCE LIKE NOBODY’S WATCHING

Seriously, turn up your favorite tunes and dance around your living room. Not only is it a fun way to get moving, but it can also boost your mood and reduce stress.

PRACTICE MINDFULNESS

Meditation and mindfulness practices can help you manage stress and emotional fluctuations. Plus, it’s a great excuse to take a break from the chaos of life.

TRY ACUPUNCTURE

If you know me, you know that needles of any kind are not my thing. But this ancient practice can help alleviate some symptoms of perimenopause, including hot flashes and mood swings and I have clients who swear by it. Plus, who doesn’t love a good excuse to pamper themselves?

CONNECT WITH OTHER WOMEN

Join a support group or openly talk to friends who are going through similar experiences.

Although it’s becoming more common, I believe talks about hormonal shifts and perimenopause/menopause should be as common as talking about our jobs. Sharing stories and laughter can be incredibly therapeutic.

GET CREATIVE

Channel your inner artist! Whether it’s painting, writing, or crafting, engaging in creative activities can be a fantastic outlet for your emotions.

Perimenopause may feel like a wild, and sometimes miserable ride.

But understanding the signs, symptoms, and hormonal changes can empower you to navigate this phase with confidence.

Remember, every woman, at some point, be it naturally or medically – will go through some version of this transitional time. There are plenty of holistic strategies to help you not just survive, but thrive through it.

Learn how to navigate the changes with more ease, find humor in the chaos, take care of yourself – and if you need help, join my wellness coaching program, The Whole Body Wellness Rx. Because suffering through it, is so outdated.

The Whole Body Wellness Rx takes a personalized, holistic approach to restoring hormonal balance, improving gut health, and achieving your ultimate goals by unlocking your unique wellness prescription.

And if you’re looking for some deliciously healthy comfort?

Try this Blueberry chia seed pudding recipe. The omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and fiber in it can help calm inflammation and support progesterone production.

Do you know for sure whether you are or aren’t in perimenoapuse right now? Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram @SimplyFitAngel. I’d love to hear from you!