Today's podcast is released to coincide with world menopause day, I also released a special episode in 2021, if you would like to go back to listen it's episode 110.
What's the difference between menopause and perimenopause?
The term perimenopause and menopause are often used interchangeably. However officially the term menopause is a single day, and it is the day when a woman has not had a period for 12 months. Perimenopause is the time before that and post menopause is the time after that.
When we are talking about signs, symptoms, and other general talk around menopause what we are usually referring to is actually perimenopause.
How long does perimenopause last?
One of the most common things I hear is 'I'm not in menopause yet' from women that are in their early 40's. Whilst perimenopause is different for everyone, I suggest that it lasts around ten years.
The reason I suggest ten years is that it can often start with symptoms that you might not recognise as perimenopause. Women assume that if they are still having a regular cycle that they are not in perimenopause, and whilst changes in our hormone levels, particularly oestrogen does have an impact on our cycle regularity, many women are taking contraceptives that interfere with this natural cycle. Also, your cycle might be less strong, but still regular.
In my experience of working with many women, often the first signs are more psychological than physical. Poor quality sleep, anxiety, fear, or anger are very common early signs. Many women describe it as having PMT but at any time of the month, along with increases in GI issues and fatigue.
The reason many women do not realise these symptoms are actually perimenopause as this seems to coincide with a time that we are super busy and we will often put it down to the stresses of modern life, rather than the natural cycle of life.
When does perimenopause end?
Officially 12 months after your last period is menopause, and then all the time after that is post menopause. However, we cannot just assume that our hormones and our bodies miraculously balance on that day, and we achieve perfect homeostasis. It is still highly likely that we still have some work to do to clear and balance hormones and support our health naturally through our second spring.
I have had many women approach me in their late 50's distressed and confused becuase they are still feeling symptomatic and didn't expect that.
What can we do to support ourselves through perimenopause?
My advice to every woman at any age, but particularly those in their mid-life years - which I suggest is 35 to 55 is to take care of your hormones. It doesn't matter whether you are having a regular period or not you can still do lots of work to support yourself.
The earlier you start to take care of your overall health, the easier your transition through perimenopause will be, and the quicker you will reach that wonderful second spring.
Are you ready to support your journey through perimenopause?
For the full episode notes please go to: hillstart.me.uk/163
To listen to the full episode head on over to your chosen podcast provider or follow this link here for itunes:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/are-you-really-going-to-eat-that/id1480678239
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