Navigating Perimenopause:

A Simple Guide to Understanding Your Body

Perimenopause is the natural transition period before menopause, often starting in your 40s, though it can begin earlier. This stage is marked by fluctuating hormones, which can lead to a wide range of symptoms. Hot flushes, mood swings, disrupted sleep, and irregular periods are just a few of the changes you might experience.

While these changes can feel overwhelming, understanding what’s happening in your body—and making small, supportive changes—can help you navigate this phase with confidence.

What’s Happening in Your Body During Perimenopause

During perimenopause, your levels of oestrogen and progesterone begin to fluctuate. This hormonal imbalance can trigger physical and emotional symptoms such as:

  • Hot flushes and night sweats: Sudden waves of heat that can disrupt your day or wake you up at night.

  • Mood swings and anxiety: Changes in progesterone can lead to increased feelings of irritability or worry.

  • Sleep disturbances: Hormonal shifts can affect your body’s ability to stay asleep, leaving you fatigued.

  • Irregular periods: You may notice your cycle becoming shorter, longer, or more unpredictable.

How to Support Your Body During Perimenopause

There are practical ways to support your body and feel more balanced:

natural ways to manage menopause

1. Balance Blood Sugar

Stable blood sugar levels can help regulate your hormones and reduce mood swings and energy crashes.

  • Start your morning with protein: Try scrambled eggs with avocado and spinach, or Greek yoghurt with nuts and berries.

  • Avoid skipping meals: Skipping meals can cause cortisol spikes, which can worsen anxiety and hot flushes.

2. Herbal Support for Hormonal Balance

Herbs can help ease perimenopausal symptoms by:

  • Balancing progesterone levels and reduce PMS-like symptoms.

  • Eases hot flushes and night sweats.

  • Reduces cortisol levels and supports resilience to stress, which is crucial during this hormonal transition.

Always consult a healthcare professional before starting herbal supplements to ensure they suit your needs.

3. Adding supplements specific for your needs

Carefully chosen supplements can promote relaxation, reduce muscle tension, and improve sleep.
Consuming foods that support this treatment goal may include Dark leafy greens, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and dark chocolate.

4. Prioritise Rest and Downtime

Perimenopause can increase your sensitivity to stress, making it important to create moments of calm in your day:

  • Enjoy a warm bath with Epsom salts to relax your muscles and mind.

  • Practice mindfulness or meditation for five minutes each day.

  • Create a calming bedtime ritual, such as dimming the lights and reading a book instead of scrolling on your phone.

Final Thought

Perimenopause is a significant phase of life, but with the right support, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By making small adjustments to your diet, supporting your adrenal system, and using natural remedies, you can feel more balanced and empowered during this transition. Remember—you’re not alone in this journey, and there are many tools available to help you feel your best.

 
Next
Next

The Link Between Stress and Digestion: