Changes are subtle and easily dismissed. Migraines, a little moody, a little anxious, a little weight gain, a little tired, a little less libido, a little less frivolous, a little joint ache and pain not forgetting hot flushes and heavy periods.Then hey presto I felt fine again, if only for a short while. I didn’t have all these symptoms, one or two were enough. My hormones were up and down like a yo yo, making me unsteady, uncertain and on occasions knocked my confidence.
If you were sensitive to hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle perimenopause maybe more intense. My periods became heavy, and irregular. I definitely didn’t put 2 and 2 together. The truth is at the time I didn’t realise perimenopause was a thing! What I do remember clearly is asking my husband to go buy more supplies, the biggest and thickest for the heaviest flow! I did think it a little strange but clearly I didn’t think hard or long enough. It was all an inconvenience. My periods where never regular so if I missed one I can honestly tell you I wasn’t disappointed. My low progesterone and high oestrogen caused my heavy periods. During this time I also had terrible stomach cramps. I downed a few ibuprofen and went on my merry way. Of course I was aware menopause was looming. A few of my friends had already started their meno journey…….
TIP
Perimenopause on average lasts between 4 and 8 years. Sometimes less, sometimes more.
It’s not important if we have symptoms or not. I feel it’s more important to feel supported by other women, each of us is an individual and unique. There’s no badge of honour to push through, or being told to get on with it and absolutely no shame if you feel terrible and not you’re not coping. When we started our periods most girls I knew couldn’t wait to share the news. I’m afraid that wasn’t me, the reason being I was the last to ‘come on’ in our group and felt rather embarrassed.
Perimenopause and menopause is inevitable for most of us ladies. In my opinion we should be grateful to reach this milestone. Whether we welcome the changes or not they take place in our body. The transition is an important time to stay fit, and healthy. Our bodies are actually quite vulnerable during this time. We must try to ensure we look after ourselves so any issues such as aching joints, unwanted weight gain, tiredness et cetera are not exacerbated and only remain temporary.
TIP
- Seek professional help if you have concerns. Prepare your questions
- Start moving. A breath of fresh air does makes me feel better.
- Find a sport or exercise you like.
- Nourish your body, eat healthy, no dieting.
- Reduce stress. Ask for help and support.
- Rest and relax. Good quality sleep is so important, gives your body a chance to heal regenerate and recover. We’re all familiar with the result if we’re not sleeping well!
If you’re not sleeping make an appointment with your GP. Lack of sleep effects our moods, people around us and our motivation. If you’re tired exercise is the last thing you want to do.
No time to waste. Good health is everything, we only notice when it’s gone. Life is to be lived and enjoyed. Wouldn’t you agree?
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