Anxiety, hot flushes, and a decreased sex drive are just a few of the symptoms that accompany the perimenopause. And managing these symptoms can be quite challenging for some individuals. Clare Richards, a Steps star at the age of 45, recently shared her difficulties in leaving her home in Surrey due to the “horrendous” symptoms she experienced. In an interview with The Mirror, she revealed severe anxiety, palpitations, a pounding sensation in her neck, and a feeling of shriveling up from the inside out. Experts state that while not everyone going through the perimenopause will experience physical and mental symptoms, the majority will.
But what exactly is the perimenopause? It is the stage that occurs before the menopause sets in. During this time, hormones begin to change, but periods have not yet ceased permanently. Typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 60, the perimenopause can last for several months or even years. Hormone levels undergo changes, and the ovaries begin producing fewer eggs. The menopause is officially reached when a woman has not had a period for 12 months or more. Symptoms arise due to hormonal fluctuations, and for some, these symptoms can significantly impact their daily lives.
One of the first signs of the perimenopause is changes in the menstrual cycle. Perimenopause is the period from the onset of menopausal symptoms until a woman experiences her final period. It is a natural stage of life for women aged 45 to 60. During the perimenopause, hormones start to shift, and fewer eggs are produced by the ovaries. The NHS states that alterations in periods are typically the initial indication of perimenopause. They can become irregular, shorter, or longer than usual. Bleeding may also be heavier or lighter than normal. It is only considered the menopause once a woman has not had a period for approximately a year.
Hot flushes, characterized by sudden red flushing across the chest, neck, face, and head, along with sweating, changes in mood, and lack of concentration, are a common symptom of the perimenopause. These hot flushes can also cause a feeling of heat spreading throughout the body. Night sweats are hot flushes that occur at night. According to Bupa, as many as eight in ten perimenopausal women may experience hot flushes. Additionally, hot flushes can continue even after periods have stopped.
Another symptom of the perimenopause is difficulty sleeping. A lack of estrogen may be the cause of sleep disturbances. Estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone all decline during this period, and these hormones have beneficial effects on the brain and sleep patterns. Physical symptoms like night sweats and frequent urination may disrupt sleep. An increase in adrenaline due to feeling hot upon waking up can make it difficult to fall back asleep. Sleep complaints during the perimenopause may be accompanied by feelings of anxiety and depression. Lack of sleep itself can contribute to anxiety and depression.
Palpitations, or noticeable heartbeats, are a symptom of the perimenopause. Oestrogen, which declines during this stage, helps protect the heart, blood vessels, bones, brain, skin, and vagina. These palpitations are usually harmless and can coincide with hot flushes, night sweats, or dizziness. Changing or declining levels of estrogen can affect the heart’s electric impulses and lead to palpitations.
Headaches and migraines are frequently caused by fluctuations in hormones. Periods, contraceptive pills, and the perimenopause can all trigger these symptoms. A drop in estrogen during menstruation can trigger migraines or headaches. The perimenopause can lead to more frequent periods, disrupting the normal cycle and triggering migraines. The fluctuation of hormone levels during this stage may worsen migraines.
A reduced sex drive during the perimenopause can result from a decrease in hormone levels, particularly estrogen. This decrease can also cause vaginal dryness, pain, itching, and discomfort during sex, contributing to a loss of libido. Other factors like weight gain, which can negatively impact confidence, and lack of sleep, which can leave individuals too tired for sex, can also contribute to a decreased sex drive.
Changes in appearance are common during the perimenopause. Hormonal changes make it harder for the body to efficiently burn calories and store more fat. As a result, weight gain may occur during this stage. The NHS suggests staying active to help burn calories and states that Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can assist with weight gain. Additionally, the perimenopause may cause dry and itchy skin due to lower levels of natural oils caused by decreased estrogen.
The perimenopause not only affects women physically but can also impact their mental health. Anxiety, brain fog, and a loss of confidence are common psychological symptoms experienced by many women. Sleep problems can contribute to feelings of depression and anxiety. Other symptoms can also affect one’s mood, leading to decreased confidence. Hormone Replacement Therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and prioritizing good sleep and relaxation can all help manage these symptoms.
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