Perimenopause and menopause can be a challenging time for women and people with periods, and until recently, very little was known about perimenopause symptoms and treatments available. In fact, more than 90% of post-menopausal individuals were never taught about menopause at school, with many only aware of symptoms like night sweats and hot flashes.
Perimenopause is a natural but often misunderstood phase, surrounded by stigma, shame and embarrassment. However, it marks the start of a lot of mental and physical changes in the body. More education, knowledge, and understanding of the symptoms and treatments is needed to improve healthcare support, and shift societal attitudes.
If you’ve noticed your period behaving differently – coming late, skipping a month, or becoming heavier or lighter – This could be the start of perimenopause. To ease any anxieties and answer any common questions about perimenopause, this blog will talk you through how your periods will change and what you can expect.
What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transitional phase between regular periods and the menopause when your ovaries gradually reduce oestrogen production. It typically begins in your 40s, but for some, it can start earlier or later. On average, perimenopause lasts 4 to 6 years, but the experience is unique to everyone.
You’ll know you’ve officially reached menopause once you’ve gone 12 consecutive months without a period. By this stage, your ovaries have stopped producing most of the hormones responsible for your menstrual cycle.
How do periods change during perimenopause?
One of the hallmark signs of perimenopause is a change in your menstrual cycle. Since no two bodies are the same, the changes you experience may differ from someone else’s. Here’s what to look out for:
- Irregular cycles: Your periods may become shorter or longer than usual. Tracking your period on an app/ calendar will help you spot any patterns.
- Heavier or lighter flows: Some people notice their periods become significantly heavier, while others experience much lighter bleeding.
- Spotting: Bleeding between periods is common during perimenopause.
- Skipped periods: Missing a period or two is often one of the first sign of the perimenopause.
- Changes in symptoms: Fluctuating hormones levels may cause symptoms such as mood swings, hot flashes and difficulty sleeping to change in severity or arise throughout the perimenopause.
It is worth consulting a healthcare professional if you think you’re going through perimenopause, especially if any of these changes feel extreme or interfere with your daily life.
How do hormones change during perimenopause?
During perimenopause, hormone levels – especially oestrogen and progesterone – can fluctuate dramatically. Your ovaries gradually produce less oestrogen, leading to spikes and drops that affect your menstrual cycle and overall wellbeing.
Progesterone, which is produced during ovulation, also declines as ovulation comes less regular. Without the calming effects of progesterone and the mood-regulating effects of oestrogen, it is not uncommon to experience low mood, anxiety, or other emotional changes during perimenopause.
Other hormones, including testosterone and melatonin, also decrease during this time:
- Testosterone: Reduced levels of testosterone can lead to fatigue, lower libido, and cognitive changes.
- Melatonin: Some women and people with periods experience disruption to their sleeping pattern due to a decrease of melatonin.
How to manage period changes?
As you go through the physical and hormonal changes through the perimenopause, there are multiple methods of managing your symptoms and wellbeing. Here are some strategies to help:
- Track your cycle: Monitoring changes in your periods and symptoms using an app or journal will help you identify any patterns and feel more in control.
- Prioritising a nourishing diet: Eating a balanced, rich diet in whole foods can support hormones and energy levels.
- Stay active: Regular exercise can help manage stress, improve mood, and support overall health.
- Reduce stress: Mindfulness practices like yoga and meditation can make a big difference to overall wellbeing.
- Explore treatment options: Hormonal treatments like HRT (hormone replacement therapy) or non-hormonal alternatives such as lifestyle changes and herbal medicines can help manage symptoms. Consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice.
Perimenopause marks a significant transition but understanding the changes your body is going through can make the journey less daunting. By staying informed and seeking support you can navigate this phase with confidence. Have you noticed changes in your cycle during perimenopause? Explore our range of natural and compostable liners to avoid being caught out.
