What are the symptoms of perimenopause? From hot flushes to mood swings, we’ve got the lowdown on this wild ride.
If you’re waking up in the middle of the night swimming in sweat or find yourself snapping like a hungry crocodile at your partner for simply breathing, you might be thinking, “What on Earth is happening to me?” Well, chances are, you’re stepping into the wild world of perimenopause.
First things first, let’s chat about what perimenopause actually is, shall we? It’s like the opening act for the main event, menopause. This is when your ovaries decide they’ve had enough and slowly cut down on that all-important oestrogen. The official menopause shindig doesn’t start until you’ve gone a whole year without a period, but oh, the fun begins much earlier.
“PERIMENOPAUSE IS NOT THE END; IT’S JUST THE BEGINNING OF A NEW BADASS CHAPTER IN YOUR LIFE.”
The Nitty-Gritty Signs and Symptoms of Perimenopause
It’s Not You, It’s Your Menstrual Cycle
Remember those days when your period arrived like clockwork? Well, those days are over, darling. Your cycle’s going haywire: sometimes it’s early, sometimes it’s late, and sometimes it’s just plain unpredictable.
Sweating Like You’re in a Sauna
Hot flushes and night sweats, anyone? One minute you’re fine, and the next you feel like you’re in a tropical rainforest without the fun of actually being on holiday. Keep that fan handy.
Moody Blues
If you’re swinging from joy to irritation faster than a Wimbledon match, blame it on your hormones. And no, you’re not going mad – it’s a bona fide symptom.
Counting Sheep
If sleep was a luxury good, we’d all be bankrupt by now. Night sweats are partly to blame, but your emotions might be keeping you up, too.
Not So Fun Down Below
We have to talk about it – vaginal dryness. It’s not exactly cocktail party conversation, but it’s real. Plus, your bladder suddenly thinks it’s a racehorse and wants to go all the time.
Where Did My Libido Go?
If your sex drive has hit a roundabout and taken an unexpected exit, you’re not alone. That reduced libido can be a double whammy with vaginal dryness and mood swings.
Where Are My Keys? And My Words?
Feeling forgetful or just not as sharp? It’s not your imagination. Welcome to the “brain fog” club; memberships are free.
So, What’s Normal?
Look, we get it. You’re thinking, “How do I know if this is perimenopause or something else entirely?” If your symptoms are going from zero to a hundred real quick, or you’re bleeding like it’s a scene from a horror film, ring up your GP. It’s better to be safe.
Tips and Tricks
Lifestyle Tweaks
Regular exercise and eating foods chock-full of calcium and vitamin D can be your best mates during this time. Mindfulness and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) are also your pals.
Medication Options
We’ve got hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which for many women is life-changing, balancing and stabilising hormones. Find a specialist in peri who can lay out all your options and help you make a decision.
Talk, Talk, Talk
Lean on your girlfriends who are also riding this hormonal roller coaster. Trust us, there’s comfort in numbers.
So there you have it. If you’re walking this perimenopausal tightrope, you’re not alone, and there’s loads of support out there. Pop in to see your GP for some tailored advice. After all, perimenopause is not the end; it’s just the beginning of another fabulous chapter in your life. Cheers to that!
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