What Is Perimenopause? Signs, Symptoms, and How to Support Your Body Through It

To help us shed some light on these chapters of life, we spoke with Moshy's Chief Medical officer, Dr. Kieran Dang.

In this blog, Dr. Kieran helps us understand:

• What is perimenopause
• The difference between perimenopause and menopause
• The signs and symptoms to look out for
• How to support your body through this stage of life
• Medical considerations

In short, perimenopause is the transitional period leading up to menopause.

Menopause is a single point in time marked by 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, whereas perimenopause is the journey leading there. 

Perimenopause can begin anywhere from your mid-30s to your mid-40s and can last for several years, or even a decade. During this time, your body's hormone production, particularly estrogen, begins to fluctuate, causing a wide range of physical and emotional changes.

Think of it as your body's way of gracefully slowing down its reproductive functions. This isn't necessarily a condition that needs to be treated, but a natural and inevitable stage of life. The key is to understand what's happening so you can support your body and manage the symptoms effectively.

Because perimenopause is a gradual process of hormonal change, its symptoms can vary significantly from person to person. You may experience some, all, or none of the below symptoms, and they can also come and go, or change in severity over time.

• Changes in Your Period: Your menstrual cycle may become irregular. Your period could be shorter or longer, lighter or heavier, and the time between periods may change. This is often one of the first and most noticeable signs.
  
  
• Hot Flushes and Night Sweats: These sudden feelings of intense warmth, often accompanied by sweating, are a classic symptom. They can range from a mild flush to a more intense sensation and are caused by hormonal shifts affecting your body's internal thermostat.
  
  
• Mood Swings and Emotional Changes: Fluctuating hormones can impact your mood, leading to increased irritability, anxiety, or feelings of sadness. It's important to remember that these feelings are often hormonally-driven.
  
  
• Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or restless sleep is common, often due to night sweats or anxiety.
  
  
• Vaginal Dryness and Changes in Libido: Decreased estrogen levels can lead to changes in vaginal tissue, causing dryness and discomfort. This can also affect your sex drive.
  
  
• Fatigue: Feeling more tired than usual is a common complaint, even if you are getting enough sleep.
  
  
• Brain Fog: Many women report difficulty concentrating, memory lapses, or a general feeling of "fogginess."
  

While these symptoms can be challenging, a proactive approach to your health can make a huge difference.

Here are some key ways you can support your body through this transition:

• Prioritise Nutrition: A balanced diet is your best friend. Focus on whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Foods rich in phytoestrogens, like soybeans, chickpeas, and flaxseeds, may help manage some symptoms. Hydration is also key, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  
  
• Stay Active: Regular exercise is a powerful tool. It can help regulate your mood, improve sleep quality, and support a healthy weight. Aim for a mix of cardio, strength training, and gentle activities like yoga, which can also help with stress reduction.
  
  
• Focus on Sleep: Creating a consistent sleep routine is important. Keep your bedroom cool and dark, limit screen time before bed, and try a relaxing activity like reading or a warm bath to wind down.
  
  
• Manage Stress: Stress can worsen perimenopausal symptoms. Find healthy ways to cope, whether it's through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply taking time for yourself.
  
  
• Talk to Your Doctor: Every woman’s experience is unique. Don’t hesitate to speak with a healthcare professional about your symptoms. We can help you understand what's happening and discuss options for symptom management, including lifestyle adjustments and if needed, medical treatments.

If your symptoms are severe, navigating this transition should include working with your healthcare provider.

Here are some key considerations:

• When to See Your Doctor: You should speak to your GP whenever your symptoms are bothering you or impacting your quality of life. It’s also important to discuss your long-term health, as hormonal changes can affect your bone and heart health.
  
  
• Hormone Therapy (MHT/HRT): For many women, Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT), also known as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), is the most effective treatment for managing severe symptoms. It works by replenishing the hormones your body is no longer producing. The benefits and risks depend on factors like your age, health history, and the type of therapy. It is a personal decision that should be made in close consultation with your doctor.
  
  
• Regular Screenings: This is a crucial time to be proactive about your health. Continue with regular screenings, including mammograms, cervical cancer screenings, and blood pressure and cholesterol checks.
  
  
• Contraception: It is still possible to get pregnant during perimenopause. If you do not wish to conceive, continue using contraception until you have gone 12 consecutive months without a period.
  
  

Remember perimenopause is a new chapter in your life, not a problem to be fixed. By listening to your body, nourishing it with care and seeking support when you need it, you can navigate this transition with strength and confidence.

We hope this has provided you with the clarity and understanding you need. This transition is a natural part of life, and you don’t have to go through it alone. Moshy offers a variety of tools to support you in your journey, including:

• Educational resources to empower you with in-depth knowledge.
• Dietitian-designed meal plans for nourishing your body.
• Consultations with our team of medical professionals to explore and manage your weight loss goals.

Sometimes, expert guidance is essential to simplify complex health challenges, and that's precisely why our weight management program is designed to help you make informed choices and achieve your goals.

Experience a streamlined consultation process with Moshy—complete a brief questionnaire and quickly connect with your health practitioner, all without the stress of in-person clinic visits.

If you're ready to take the next step in your health journey, our team is here to help.