Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause: What’s Happening and Why It Feels Like a Rollercoaster
Imagine embarking on a journey along a winding road—what starts as familiar terrain suddenly transforms into steep hills, sharp turns, and foggy patches. This is what perimenopause and menopause often feel like. If you’re feeling a little lost along the way, you’re not alone.
For many women, perimenopause begins quietly, often in their late 30s or early 40s—sometimes a whole decade before menopause itself. It’s a time of hormonal fluctuations that bring symptoms as varied as they are unexpected. And menopause? That’s the milestone marking 12 consecutive months without a period (or 24 months if you’re under 50).
Let’s dive into why this transition feels so intense, what’s happening in your body, and how you can manage symptoms with confidence and support.
Why Perimenopause and Menopause Feel So Intense
The average age of menopause in the UK is 51, but women today can expect to live at least 32 years post-menopause. Compare this to 1900, when women often lived only into their late 50s, and it’s clear: living decades without oestrogen is a uniquely modern challenge.
Fluctuating or declining oestrogen levels affect the entire body, from head to toe. Yet many women chalk their symptoms up to stress or assume they’re too young to be experiencing menopause. Worse, some hesitate to seek help, fearing they won’t be taken seriously.
Common (and Not-So-Common) Symptoms
Menopause is more than just hot flushes. Its symptoms span the physical, psychological, and urogenital spectrums, affecting every part of life.
Physical Symptoms
1. Hot Flushes and Night Sweats
Among the most frequent symptoms, these are caused by fluctuating hormones, particularly declining oestrogen. HRT is highly effective for many women, and addressing blood sugar and inflammation through nutrition and exercise can also help.
2. Dry Eyes
Up to 75% of women experience dry eyes during perimenopause and menopause, often worsened by air conditioning, allergies, or medications like antihistamines.
3. Insomnia
Struggling with sleep is common, leaving many women feeling exhausted and exacerbating other symptoms like fatigue and mood swings.
4. Joint Pain and Stiffness
Nearly 50% of women experience joint pain as oestrogen levels drop. This hormone has anti-inflammatory properties, so its decline increases the risk of arthritis. HRT, anti-inflammatory diets, and regular exercise can help.
5. Hair Thinning or Hair Loss
Hair loss can be distressing, but holistic assessments, including blood tests, can identify the cause and potential treatments.
6. Restless Leg Syndrome
This uncomfortable condition often worsens at night. Changes in oestrogen may exacerbate symptoms, but HRT, gentle exercise, and stretching can provide relief.
7. Skin Changes
Oestrogen is crucial for maintaining collagen and skin elasticity. Its decline causes dryness, sagging, and wrinkles. A good skincare routine and proper nutrition are essential.
8. Fatigue and Exhaustion
Hormonal fluctuations, combined with disrupted sleep and daily demands, often leave women feeling drained. Focusing on nutrition, exercise, and stress reduction can combat this.
Psychological Symptoms
1. Anxiety and Mood Swings
Hormonal shifts often bring waves of emotions, from irritability to sadness, impacting confidence and self-esteem.
2. Brain Fog
Memory lapses and difficulty concentrating—commonly called brain fog—can be frustrating but are a well-documented symptom of perimenopause.
3. Low Motivation
Decreased serotonin and dopamine levels can lead to feelings of apathy or dullness.
The Link Between ADHD and Perimenopause
If you have ADHD, you might notice worsening symptoms during perimenopause. Hormonal changes, particularly declining oestrogen, affect serotonin and dopamine—key brain chemicals for focus and mood. This can make managing ADHD more challenging during this stage of life.
Urogenital Symptoms
1. Vaginal Dryness
Often unspoken, this symptom can affect both intimacy and comfort. Localised oestrogen treatments offer effective relief.
2. Urinary Symptoms
Frequent urination or slight leakage is common, though rarely discussed openly. Support is available for managing these symptoms.
Health Risks to Be Aware Of
Menopause doesn’t just bring symptoms—it increases the risk of certain medical conditions, including:
- Osteoporosis
- Coronary artery disease
- Insulin resistance
- Sarcopenia (muscle loss)
Managing menopause is about more than easing hot flushes; it’s about protecting lifelong health.
Managing Symptoms and Finding Support
Perimenopause and menopause don’t need to be endured alone. At The Menopause Company, we help you understand what’s happening, why you feel this way, and what you can do about it.
How We Support You:
- Personalised Advice: Dr Naomi takes the time to listen and craft a tailored plan for your needs.
- HRT Options: Hormone therapy to manage symptoms effectively.
- Lifestyle Guidance: From nutrition and exercise to stress management and sleep strategies, we address every aspect of your well-being.
Don’t Wait to Seek Support
Menopause is a challenging transition, but with the right guidance, you can navigate it confidently. Follow us on social media for insights and community support.
Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation with Dr Naomi today and start thriving through this stage of life.