Ah, perimenopause, that delightful rite of passage where your body decides to throw you a surprise party filled with gifts you never asked for. Welcome to my world, fellow adventurers, where the journey into the heart of hormonal havoc is both bewildering and, let’s face it, sometimes downright hilarious. I’m here to share with you the 15 REAL signs of perimenopause, as experienced by yours truly before I waved the white flag and turned to HRT for some much-needed backup.
So, grab a cup of tea (or something stronger; I won’t judge), and join me as we dive headfirst into the wild and wacky world of perimenopause. It’s a rollercoaster ride of hormones, chin hairs, and the more than occasional urge to scream at the sound of your partner’s breaths.
15 REAL signs and symptoms of perimenopause
1. Brain fog
Ah, the dreaded brain fog, or as I like to think of it, the “brain holiday” that you never signed up for. This uninvited guest was the main culprit behind my SOS call to the doctor.
As someone who’s always prided herself on being sharp, reliable, creative, and innovative in my business – having my mental faculties take unexpected two-week sabbaticals was nothing short of a professional nightmare. It wasn’t just about misplacing keys or forgetting words; it was about watching my confidence and workload suffer in real time, a scenario no highlighter or planner could salvage.
Here are a couple of tips that helped me cut through the mist:
First, embrace the power of lists
Whether it’s a traditional notepad or a digital app, jotting down tasks, ideas, and reminders can be a game-changer. It’s like having a backup hard drive for your brain.
Second, prioritise sleep
Easier said than done, I know, but quality Zs are like a Ctrl-Alt-Del for your brain. Establishing a soothing bedtime routine and aiming for 7-9 hours of sleep can help clear the cobwebs.
2. Wild mood swings
Next up on our tour through the perimenopausal funhouse: wild mood swings.
One minute you’re laughing at a joke, and the next, you’re inexplicably sobbing over an avocado that’s just slightly too ripe. It’s like being on an emotional rollercoaster operated by a toddler – unpredictable, erratic, and concerning the significance of what sets you off.
For someone who used to pride themselves on emotional stability, this was a bewildering twist. Suddenly, the smallest things became monumental, and I found myself wondering if I’d always been this… passionate about avocados.
But here’s the silver lining: there are strategies to help even out the ride.
Acknowledge and accept
Recognising that these mood swings are a normal part of perimenopause can be incredibly freeing. You’re not losing your grip; you’re just on a hormonal adventure.
Find your zen
Whether it’s yoga, meditation, or simply taking deep breaths while hiding in the bathroom, finding moments of calm can be a lifesaver. It’s about giving yourself permission to pause and recalibrate, ensuring that you don’t end up crying over spilt milk – or in my case, the sound of my husband breathing.
3. Anxiety
Anxiety during perimenopause; transforming even the most mundane thoughts into overwhelming sources of worry. It’s as though your brain decides to play a constant loop of “what if” scenarios, making it nearly impossible to focus, make decisions, or simply enjoy a moment of peace.
This relentless onslaught of anxiety over the trivial can freeze you in your tracks, casting a shadow of doubt and fear over everyday life. The anxiety felt like an uninvited, unsettling change in the way my mind operates, turning routine tasks into mountains of concern.
To navigate through this fog of anxiety, consider these two lifelines:
Mindfulness and connection
Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises, can act as anchors, bringing you back to the present moment when your thoughts start spiralling out of control. They help by creating a space between you and your anxious thoughts, allowing you to observe them without judgment and gradually reduce their power over you.
Reaching out for support can make a world of difference
Sharing your experiences with friends, family, or a support group not only provides comfort but also reminds you that you’re not alone on this journey. Sometimes, just verbalising your fears can diminish their intensity.
4. Issues with my confidence
Navigating through the symptoms of perimenopause, I found my confidence wavering in a way it never had before. Each symptom, each unpredictable mood swing and wave of anxiety, seemed to chip away at the solid foundation I had built over the years. I began questioning myself constantly, worrying if this was it – if I had lost the capacity to operate at my usual level, feeling perpetually tired and run down.
Watching the person I used to be become more distant with each passing day was disheartening. Doubt and uncertainty became my unwelcome companions, making me wonder if I’d ever regain my former sense of self-assurance.
Girl, Stop Apologizing
During this time, a particular source of inspiration and empowerment came from Rachel Hollis’ book, “Girl, Stop Apologizing.” I didn’t just read it once but immersed myself in its pages four times over a few years, drawing strength from its messages with each reading. Hollis’ straightforward advice felt like a personal pep talk, reigniting my belief in myself and my abilities.
“I can do this…”
Alongside this, I began practising daily affirmations, taking a few moments every morning to remind myself of my strengths, accomplishments, and values. This simple ritual became a powerful tool in rebuilding my confidence, layer by layer. It taught me that even amidst the turmoil of perimenopause, I could find my footing again. Perimenopause might be reshaping my journey, but it certainly doesn’t have the final say in who I am or what I can achieve. With resilience and the right mindset, I’m learning to navigate this chapter with newfound strength and grace.
5. Feeling hot, hot, hot
Ah, hot flushes and the unexpected joy of discovering new, sweaty realms within your own body – welcome to the sizzling safari of perimenopause! It’s like my internal thermostat decided to pursue a career in erratic jazz, fluctuating between hot, hotter, and “Is it just me or is this room hotter than the sun?” And let’s not even get started on the surprise sweat parties in places I didn’t even know had sweat glands. Who knew elbows could perspire with such enthusiasm?
Cheeky solution
But fear not, fellow heatwave adventurers, for I have stumbled upon a couple of cheeky solutions to help us navigate these tropical moments with a bit more comfort – and dare I say, style? First up, period pants (I like to get mine from Cheeky Wipes.) Not just for that time of the month, my friends. These marvels of modern underwear technology offer a comforting embrace for when you’re feeling a tad more… moist than usual.
Copper-infused pants!
And for a bonus, I’ve discovered the wonders of copper-infused pants from Copper Clothing. Yes, you heard right. With their specially designed deowear® zone, these bad girls are like the cool side of the pillow for your nether regions.
It’s not just their immediate cooling effect that makes them stand out. These innovative garments are a game-changer for more reasons than one. The copper infusion isn’t just for show; it carries antimicrobial properties that help in reducing odour-causing bacteria. This means you’re not only kept cool but also fresh throughout the day, making them perfect for those unexpected heatwaves.
Copper is known for its skin health benefits, including enhancing skin texture and promoting the healing of skin tissues. Wearing these copper-infused pants could potentially lead to healthier skin in your most sensitive areas, reducing the risk of irritation and infections that can be exacerbated by excessive sweating.
The fabric itself is designed to be breathable and moisture-wicking, pulling sweat away from the body to keep you dry and comfortable. This feature, combined with the antimicrobial properties of copper, offers a double layer of protection against the discomforts brought on by perimenopause.
These copper-infused pants from Copper Clothing are not just about managing sweat and staying cool; they’re about embracing a solution that keeps you feeling confident, fresh, and comfortable, no matter what your internal thermostat decides to throw at you. With these in your wardrobe, you can tackle the perimenopause journey with a bit more ease and a lot more style.
Get the copper-infused pants here!
6. Heavy periods
The rollercoaster of perimenopause took me for another loop with the arrival of incredibly heavy periods leaving me low on iron every single month and adding a whole new level of exhaustion to my already frazzled state.
The constant battle against the tide, soaking through period pants and pads, was not only physically draining but also took a significant toll on my confidence. Each month felt like a reminder of the turmoil happening inside my body, making me feel helpless in the wake of its force.
Iron
However, I found a silver lining by incorporating a daily iron supplement (I like the Better You iron spray) into my routine, which turned out to be a game-changer. I cannot recommend enough the importance of monitoring your iron levels and considering supplementation if necessary.
Up the absorbancy
Investing in super-absorbent period products that can keep up with the demands of heavy flow can make a world of difference in managing this challenging symptom with a bit more dignity and less distress!
7. Short cycles
Navigating through perimenopause, I encountered yet another bewildering twist: my menstrual cycles began to shorten dramatically, sometimes to the point where I’d find myself grappling with the joys of not one, but TWO periods in a single month, thanks to a cycle that decided 20 days was the new norm. This acceleration of cyclical symptoms felt like being on a never-ending merry-go-round, with barely a moment to catch my breath between rides.
The constant fluctuations in hormones made it challenging to predict how I’d feel from one week to the next, adding an extra layer of complexity to managing everyday life.
Professional help
In search of stability, the most crucial step I took was reaching out to my doctor to discuss the possibility of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). While I’ll delve deeper into the HRT journey later in this article, it’s worth noting early on that seeking professional medical advice can provide a tailored approach to managing these intensified symptoms.
Keep a symptom/cycle diary
Meanwhile, keeping a detailed symptom diary helped me better understand and communicate the changes happening in my body, making consultations with healthcare providers more productive.
8. Can’t sleep, won’t sleep
As the perimenopausal roller coaster chugged along, it brought with it an unwelcome companion: sleep issues. The nights became a battleground of ‘can’t sleep, won’t sleep.’
Desperate for a solution, I turned my bedroom into a sanctuary dedicated to the pursuit of sleep. I swapped out my mattress and bedding, on a quest for that ‘just right’ feeling that would coax my body into restfulness.
Comfy game-changing PJs
But the real game-changer came when I discovered a line of sleepwear designed not just for comfort but also for wellness. These weren’t just any pyjamas; they were crafted from a luxuriously soft blend of cotton and bamboo, infused with copper to provide natural anti-microbial, self-cleansing, and hygienic properties.
Much like the copper-infused pants above that offered solace for other symptoms, these pyjamas promised a fresher, more germ-protected sleep environment. Embracing this innovative sleepwear became my nightly armour against the sleep-stealing effects of perimenopause, offering both comfort and peace of mind that was previously elusive.
But what truly sets these copper-infused pyjamas apart, beyond their health benefits, is how they feel against the skin and their overall aesthetic appeal. The material is incredibly soft, providing a soothing touch that feels like a gentle hug after a long day. This softness is especially appreciated when you’re feeling vulnerable or a bit down about yourself – those days when comfort is not just desired but needed.
Also, these pyjamas are designed with both comfort and style in mind. They manage to be flattering, draping beautifully on the body without being restrictive or too loose. This thoughtful design means that even on days when you’re not feeling your best physically or emotionally, slipping into these pyjamas can give you a small but significant boost. It’s like they envelop you in a cocoon of self-care, making them the perfect attire for unwinding after the school pick-up or any stressful day.
The copper infusion adds an extra layer of care, knowing that while you’re enveloped in softness, the fabric is working to keep your sleep environment cleaner and more hygienic. It’s this combination of comfort, style, and wellness properties that make these copper-infused pyjamas not just a piece of clothing but a holistic tool for self-care during perimenopause and beyond. They provide a tangible way to care for oneself, offering a nightly respite that supports both physical and mental well-being.
Get the game-changing PJs here!
9. Adult acne
Another unexpected guest that arrived with perimenopause was adult acne, a condition that turned my skin into a battleground. The once (relatively) smooth canvas of my face now played host to painful, bright red breakouts, particularly around the jawline – a stark contrast to the teenage acne I had naively thought I’d left behind in my youth. This wasn’t just a cosmetic inconvenience; it was a blow to my self-esteem, making me want to hide away.
However, amidst this turmoil, I discovered a couple of strategies that offered relief.
Gently does it
First and foremost, establishing a gentle skincare routine became paramount. Opting for non-comedogenic products and washing my face twice daily with a cleanser containing either benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid helped manage the breakouts without over-drying my skin.
Rosalique
But the real game-changer for my skin’s appearance, especially when dealing with rosacea, was an incredible green primer called Rosalique. Initially introduced to me by a makeup artist at a wedding, this product not only helped neutralise the redness but also soothed my inflamed skin, allowing me to face the world with renewed confidence. It reminded me that, even amidst the challenges of perimenopause, there are silver linings and solutions to be found.
10. Thinning hair
Thinning, dry hair emerged as yet another distressing sign of perimenopause for me, transforming my once luscious locks into a source of frustration. The texture and volume I had taken for granted seemed to be diminishing right before my eyes, leaving my hair feeling lifeless and brittle.
Stop crying over the avocados
To combat these changes, I embarked on a mission to nourish and rejuvenate my hair from the inside out and the outside in. Internally, I focused on enhancing my diet with foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins D and E, and biotin – nutrients known for their hair-strengthening properties. Incorporating flaxseeds, walnuts, and avocados (remember me crying about them earlier?) became a daily ritual, alongside ensuring adequate hydration to support overall health and hair vitality.
Ditch the heat
Externally, I turned to hydrating hair care products specifically formulated for thinning, dry hair. Investing in a high-quality, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner made a noticeable difference, as did reducing the frequency of washes to prevent stripping my hair of its natural oils. Additionally, I minimised the use of heat styling tools and embraced air-drying whenever possible to reduce further stress on my delicate strands.
These adjustments didn’t reverse the clock, but they helped me reclaim some of the volume and moisture my hair was desperately craving, making this perimenopausal symptom a little easier to manage.
11. Hair everywhere!
As if the universe decided to play a cruel joke on me during perimenopause, while the hair on my head embarked on a great escape, the hair on my body seemed to be throwing a party, especially on my chin.
It was as though each hair follicle on my scalp received an eviction notice, and in a defiant act of rebellion, relocated to my chin. I half-expected to wake up one morning, look in the mirror, and find a small family of hairs setting up a picnic on my jawline.
Magic razor wand
I armed myself with a strategy to tackle this hairy predicament. My first line of defence was a pack of magic razor wands, transforming my bathroom into a battleground where no rogue chin hair (or any hair for that matter) could survive.
12. Turkey neck
As I journeyed deeper into the perimenopausal jungle, I stumbled upon yet another delightful surprise: my skin decided to age a decade overnight, particularly around my neck, which I affectionately named ‘Turkey Neck.’
Yes, it seemed my neck had decided to pay homage to Christmas all year round, with its newfound texture and elasticity (or lack thereof). But rather than resign me to a future of turtlenecks and scarves, I decided to fight back.
Baste the bird
First, I introduced my skin to the wonders of hydration and firming creams, slathering them on like a pastry chef icing a cake – because if my neck was going to look like a turkey, it might as well be the most moisturised bird at the feast.
Exfoliate
I also incorporated gentle exfoliation into my routine to shed those dead skin cells like last season’s fashion, revealing the more radiant skin beneath.
13. Tinnitus
When I hit perimenopause, out of nowhere, I started hearing this constant ringing in my ears – tinnitus. Interestingly, after I’d been on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for a year, the ringing actually started to quiet down. I’m not 100% sure if it was the HRT that did the trick, but it sure feels like it.
First port of call – your Doc
If you’re dealing with this too, it might be worth talking to your doctor about whether HRT or another treatment could help with your hormonal balance and possibly ease the tinnitus.
Try to chill the heck out
Also, trying to chill out a bit more with some stress-reducing activities, like meditation or just taking deep breaths, can make a difference since stress seems to make the ringing worse.
White noise
And, when you’re trying to relax or get some sleep, a white noise machine or app can be a real lifesaver, helping to drown out that frustrating buzzing sound.
14. Old hips
Next up on my perimenopause adventure was the oh-so-joyful experience of aching hips and a lower back that made me feel like I was twice my age. It’s like one day I was fine, and the next, I woke up feeling like I’d run a marathon in my sleep.
To tackle this unwelcome change, I’ve found a couple of tricks that help.
Strrrrrrrretch
First off, I started stretching every morning and night. Nothing fancy, just some basic stretches to keep things limber and show my hips and back who’s boss.
Better-quality mattress
I also invested in a good-quality mattress and pillow because, let me tell you, they make a world of difference. It’s like sleeping on a cloud instead of a pile of rocks. And on days when the ache decides to be extra, a warm bath with Epsom salts does wonders.
It’s all about finding those little things that ease the discomfort and remind me that, perimenopause or not, I’m still as young at heart as ever.
15. Forgetting things
And then, there was the grand finale of my perimenopause symptoms: my memory turned into Swiss cheese overnight.
Seriously, I started forgetting things left and right, to the point where I had to write down everything. My kitchen now looks like an operations centre, with no less than five different dry wipe magnetic boards plastered everywhere, each one crammed with reminders for literally everything. It’s like my brain decided to go on holiday without me. But, you know what? These boards have become my lifesavers.
Write things down
If you’re sailing in the same boat, embrace the power of writing things down. I especially liked a very simple ios app called ‘To Do.’
And let’s not forget the magic of routine – having a set place for keys, glasses, and other essentials saves a ton of “where did I put that?” moments. My husband has yet to learn this routine!
My experience with HRT
According to the guidelines out there, I’m quite “young” to be experiencing these symptoms, and my doctor thought it was possibly because I have a history of endometriosis.
As you may have already gathered, I am not one to dwell on uncomfortable symptoms and so after one mood swing too many, I got in touch with Bupa to enrol myself on their ‘Menopause Plan.’ It’s a paid-for service but I wanted a doctor to take the time to assess my symptoms and allow me the time to figure out what kind of HRT was best for me and my current lifestyle (I wanted something easy to remember and administer!)
After a little bit of tweaking, I believe I am on the right dosages and embarking on hormone replacement therapy has been a transformative journey for me! After a year on HRT now (I have an estrogen patch changed twice weekly and a progesterone pill regimen of 14 days on and 14 days off) I’ve observed a lot of benefits that have significantly improved my quality of life. Here are a few pros and cons of my experience (which are likely to be different for everyone!)
The pros of HRT (in my experience)
The most notable changes include a drastic reduction in brain fog, which now only makes a fleeting appearance instead of lingering for weeks. My mood swings have become less frequent and intense, allowing for a more stable emotional landscape.
Physically, the changes are equally impressive: my body confidence has surged, my hair has become thicker, and my skin has seen vast improvements, including fewer blemishes, reduced redness, and a radiant glow that didn’t go unnoticed by those around me! Shower me with compliments!
The visible signs of ageing on my neck have improved (though turkey neck is still there much to my dismay,) my joints feel less achy, and even my cycle has normalised to a more bearable state with shorter, lighter periods and reduced anxiety overall.
The cons of HRT (IMO!)
However, it’s not all smooth sailing. HRT has introduced a couple of challenges, such as weight gain attributed to increased appetite during the progesterone phase of my treatment and exacerbated period pain, though it’s manageable. My hair seems to have become drier, and while HRT has alleviated many premenstrual tension symptoms, it hasn’t eradicated them entirely, prompting ongoing discussions with my GP to fine-tune my treatment plan.
Despite these hurdles, the positive impact of HRT on my life is undeniable. The benefits I’ve experienced far outweigh the negatives, providing me with a renewed sense of well-being and control over my body during this phase of life. It’s a personal journey, with each individual experiencing unique responses to HRT, but for me, the decision to start this treatment has been affirming!
Over to you…
Alright, we’ve journeyed through the wild landscape of perimenopause together, spotting those 15 telltale signs. From the mood rollercoasters to the surprise hot flushes, it’s been quite the ride. And my personal detour into the land of HRT? It’s been kind of like finding a secret hack in a video game but with a few unexpected side quests thrown in for good measure.
If any of this rings true for you, or if you’re just tired of Googling symptoms at 3 am, it might be time to bring in the experts. Reach out, share your story, or simply pick up the phone and chat with your GP.
Age really is just a number when it comes to menopause, and it’s never too early or too late to seek out some clarity and support. Let’s face it, navigating perimenopause without a little help is like trying to assemble IKEA furniture without the instructions – unnecessarily complicated! So, let’s keep it real and reach out; who knows, the next chapter might just be a lot smoother.
Let me know in the comments if any of this rings true to you! I’m looking forward to chatting!
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Last Updated on March 28, 2024 by Lucy Clarke
