Perimenopause, My Personal Experience and Why We Need to Talk About It
Why Is Perimenopause Still a Taboo?
Despite the fact that almost every woman will go through perimenopause at some point, it remains a topic that is rarely discussed so i So I noticed among friends.I didn’t realise how little I knew about it until I started experiencing it myself. What surprised me even more is that I see friends in their late 30s already struggling with symptoms much earlier than I ever expected.
As we grow older, we get to know our bodies so well until suddenly, everything changes. At first, I thought I was just having an off day, feeling a bit low or out of sync. But then these ‘off days’ became more frequent, and I started to notice patterns: the disrupted sleep, the unexplained weight gain, and the mood swings that seemed to come out of nowhere.
The Emotional and Physical Rollercoaster
One of the hardest parts for me was the emotional impact. It wasn’t just mood swings’I found myself having strange, dark thoughts, things I had never even considered before. And these thoughts would creep in at night, especially in the days leading up to my period. I would wake up feeling disturbed, with these thoughts still lingering in my mind. It was unsettling, and I didn’t recognise myself anymore.
Sleep became a struggle, and when I did sleep, my dreams were intense and sometimes disturbing. The next day, I felt exhausted, drained both physically and emotionally. And then there was the weight gain, ugh, that was a whole different battle! It seemed like no matter what I did, my body was changing, and I had no control over it. My figure was shifting, my appetite changed, and I found myself craving things I normally wouldn’t.
Finding Ways to Cope
At first, I tried to manage everything on my own. I don’t take medication easily l’ve never been one to rely on pills. But at some point, I had to reconsider my options. After trying various natural methods, I finally sought medical help for the extreme emotional swings, and I’m glad I did. If you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone, and there are solutions out there.
One thing that truly helped me, especially with the intrusive thoughts, was meditation. I had never really explored meditation before, but it brought me so much peace. It helped me calm my mind at night and navigate the emotional turbulence that perimenopause brings. Now, I take time every day to focus on mindfulness, and I’ve even started diving deeper into the topic. I see how much it helps me, and I hear similar stories from friends going through the same thing.
What Is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause, often referred to as the “prime menopause” phase, is the transitional period leading up to menopause. It typically begins in a woman’s 40s but can start as early as the mid-30s. This stage is marked by hormonal fluctuations, particularly in estrogen and progesterone levels, which can cause various physical and emotional changes.
Why Do Women Gain Weight During Perimenopause?
Hormonal imbalances play a key role in weight gain. The decline in estrogen can lead to:
- Fat Redistribution – More fat storage around the midsection.
- Insulin Resistance – Making the body more prone to storing fat instead of burning it.
- Muscle Loss – Decreasing muscle mass leads to a slower metabolism.
Foods That May Contribute to Weight Gain
Certain foods can worsen hormonal imbalances and contribute to weight gain, including:
- Processed Carbohydrates – White bread, pasta, and pastries can spike blood sugar levels.
- Sugary Drinks & Snacks – Sodas, candies, and baked goods lead to insulin resistance.
- Alcohol – Slows metabolism and affects hormone regulation.
- Dairy & Red Meat – Some women experience increased inflammation and bloating.
Common Symptoms of Perimenopause
Many women experience noticeable shifts in their bodies and overall well-being. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Weight Gain – Many women notice that they gain weight more easily, especially around the abdomen.
- Irregular Periods – Menstrual cycles may become shorter, longer, heavier, or lighter.
- Mood Swings & Anxiety – Hormonal fluctuations can affect mood, leading to increased anxiety, irritability, or even depression.
- Breast Tenderness – Changes in hormone levels can cause swelling, sensitivity, or even pain in the breasts.
- Acne – An increase in androgens can lead to breakouts, even for women who haven’t had acne since their teenage years.
- Loss of Libido – A decrease in estrogen and testosterone levels can result in a reduced interest in sex or difficulty with arousal.
- Bloating – Hormonal changes can cause fluid retention and digestive issues, leading to a bloated feeling.
- Abdominal Pain – Cramping and discomfort, similar to period pains, can still occur even when cycles become irregular.
- Vaginal Dryness, Itching, or Pain – Reduced estrogen levels can lead to thinning and drying of vaginal tissues, causing discomfort during intimacy or daily activities.
- Brain Function & Focus (Brain Fog) – Many women report forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and mental fatigue, often described as “ brain fog “
- Loss of Bone Density – Lower estrogen levels can lead to bone loss, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
- Hot Flashes & Night Sweats – Sudden temperature changes and excessive sweating can become more frequent, often disrupting sleep.
- Sleep Disturbances – Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep is a common struggle, sometimes due to night sweats or increased anxiety.
- Reduced Metabolism – A slower metabolism can make it harder to maintain or lose weight, even with the same diet and exercise routine.
- Cravings & Food Sensitivities – Some women develop stronger cravings for sugar and carbs or notice that certain foods cause bloating or discomfort.
- Hair Thinning & Hair Loss – Hormonal imbalances can cause hair to become thinner, more brittle, or even lead to noticeable hair shedding.
stronger cravings for sugar and carbs or notice that certain foods affect them differently.
Support Your Body with NuviaLab Meno
One thing that can truly make a difference during perimenopause and menopause is the right nutritional support. If you’re looking for something to help ease the challenges of perimenopause, NuviaLab Meno might be a great option to consider. NuviaLab Meno is an innovative dietary supplement is designed specifically for women going through menopause and perimenopause, helping to manage common symptoms such as hot flashes, excessive sweating, anxiety, and irritability.
Regular use of NuviaLab Meno supports hormonal balance, reduces fatigue and exhaustion, and promotes overall well-being. It also aids in better sleep and provides a natural energy boost -something we could all use during this transition. With a carefully selected blend of nine natural ingredients, this supplement offers an effective and holistic approach to feeling more balanced and in control.
Managing Perimenopause Naturally
While perimenopause is a natural phase, making lifestyle changes can help ease symptoms:
- Balanced Diet – Focus on whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber.
- Regular Exercise – Strength training, yoga, and cardio help maintain muscle mass and metabolism.
- Stress Management – Meditation, deep breathing, and self-care routines can reduce anxiety.
- Sleep Hygiene – A consistent sleep schedule and reducing screen time before bed improve rest.
- Hormone-Friendly Supplements – Omega-3s, magnesium, and vitamin D support hormonal balance.
Brain Fog and Forgetfulness, The Mental Side of Perimenopause
It’s not just physical symptoms – perimenopause can also affect your mind. I’ve had moments where I completely forget what I was about to say or struggle to focus on tasks that used to be easy. This “brain fog“ is a common but often overlooked symptom of hormonal changes. While it can be frustrating, small adjustments like staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and even doing brain-training exercises can help improve focus and clarity.
How Stress Makes Perimenopause Symptoms Worse
Many women don’t realize how much stress can amplify perimenopause symptoms. High stress levels increase cortisol production, which can lead to worse mood swings, sleep problems, and even weight gain. I’ve noticed that on stressful days, my hot flashes intensify, my anxiety spikes, and my sleep is even more disrupted. Finding ways to manage stress -whether through meditation, breathing exercises, or simply taking time for yourself – can make a real difference in how you experience perimenopause.
Breaking the Silence
Perimenopause is a significant but manageable phase in a woman’s life. By understanding the changes that occur and making small but effective lifestyle adjustments, women can feel more in control of their health and well-being during this transition.
Perimenopause is real, and it affects women in ways we don’t always expect. It’s time we talk about it more openly, so women don’t feel alone or unprepared. Every journey is different, but the more we share, the more we can support each other.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, know that you’re not imagining things, and you don’t have to go through this alone. Whether it’s adjusting your diet, trying meditation, or seeking medical help, find what works for you.
Let’s break the silence around perimenopause. Because trust me, you’re not the only one going through it.
Nicole & Day
Thanks for joining us!
For reading and visiting FemmVoyage! I’m Nicole, a proud single mom to my 12-year-old daughter, Day. Together, we’re navigating the adventures of single motherhood, work-life balance, and everything in between.We’re a dynamic duo bud also facing the ups and downs of single motherhood, and all the adventures life has to offer. From family travels and weekend getaways to crafting,home decor, gardening, cooking, and fashion, I love sharing our journey with you.
At FemmVoyage, I inspire other busy moms, women, travel lovers, foodies, and home enthusiasts with practical tips, stories, and creative ideas, personal stories, and lots of fun ideas. So Whether you’re a single mom like me, how loves decorating your home and garden, or just looking for fresh inspiration, you’re in the right place and will find something here to spark your joy. Let’s make every moment count whether we’re on a trip or decorating our backyard!
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