Is it hot in here? An Introduction to Perimenopause
Like so many things in our patriarchal, racist, ableist, youth-worshiping culture, perimenopause is misunderstood. Not surprisingly, most of the info on the topic was written by white dudes who saw menopause as a disease to be “fixed” (with outrageous solutions like blood letting and opium rectal douches)—and many of us unknowingly carry this mindset into our menopause journey today. This blog post aims to give you, dear reader, a starting point to feel informed & empowered as you (or those you love) move through this big (but normal) life transition.
Logistics
Menopause is going full year without a period—the official end of the reproductive years. The average age is 51, but some people get there earlier due to genetic factors, health conditions, or surgeries. Perimenopause is the 5-15ish years (the length varies) leading up to menopause when estrogen & progesterone start to fluctuate and most of the symptoms we associate with menopause start happening (these symptoms can last a few years post-menopause, too). There is no test that can prove you are in perimenopause or indicate how long it will last—if you’re in your early 40’s and wondering “is this perimenopause?” it probably is.
Changes
Most common changes include:
hot flashes
night sweats / sleep disturbances
cycle variations (+/- 6 days or more)
vaginal dryness / increase in infections
brain fog
changes in anxiety / depression
weight gain
Supports!
There are lots of ways to support yourself during this time! some things to consider:
sounds simple, but staying hydrated, eating enough food, and getting enough rest can work wonders
strength training can support your bone health through the transition
this is a great time to get your thyroid & insulin tested
if you can, quit alcohol & smoking
say no more, take time alone when you need it, give yourself more space to rest
A new you
Perimenopause is not “the beginning of the end”—most of us actually spend 1/3 to 1/2 of our lives post-menopausal! While some of the changes are here to stay (ie: vaginal dryness) and the transition might be rough, many symptoms do let up (brain fog, hot flashes, anxiety) AND there’s a whole new you on the other side. It’s a time when our brains are literally being re-wired—who knows how amazing & powerful you’ll be once it’s all settled into a new normal.
Resources
What Fresh Hell is This? by Heather Corrina
Our Bodies Ourselves: Menopause
Hormone Repair Manual by Lara Briden
The Black Woman’s Guide to Menopause by Carolyn Scott Brown