Perimenopause & Menopause

Perimenopause & Menopause

The menopause is a natural stage of life, but for many women the hormonal changes that occur during the years leading up to it can have a significant impact on physical health, emotional wellbeing, work performance, relationships and overall quality of life.

Perimenopause refers to the transitional period before menopause, during which hormone levels begin to fluctuate. This phase often starts in a woman’s 40s but can begin earlier and may last for several years before periods stop completely. Symptoms can develop gradually and are often mistakenly attributed to stress, ageing or a busy lifestyle.

Common symptoms include:

• Hot flushes and night sweats
• Poor sleep or early morning waking
• Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
• Anxiety, low mood or increased irritability
• Reduced confidence and loss of resilience
• Fatigue and reduced energy
• Weight gain and changes in body composition
• Reduced libido
• Vaginal dryness and discomfort
• Joint and muscle aches
• Palpitations
• Changes in skin and hair quality

Every woman’s experience is different. Some experience only mild symptoms, whilst others find that their physical health, emotional wellbeing and day-to-day functioning are significantly affected.