Perimenopause Explained

What’s Normal, What’s Not: Perimenopause Explained

A real-life guide to the hormonal rollercoaster no one warned you about.

If you’re in your 40s (or even your late 30s) and wondering why your moods are up and down, your periods are unpredictable, or your sleep has gone missing - you might be in perimenopause.

And no, you’re not too young. And no, you're not imagining things.

So what is perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause - when your ovaries begin to slow estrogen and progesterone production. It can last anywhere from 2 to 10 years, and symptoms often show up years before your period stops completely.

What’s “Normal” (But Frustrating)

Here’s what many women experience - and what’s considered common in perimenopause:

• Irregular periods (longer, shorter, heavier, lighter, skipped)

• Mood swings or unexpected irritability

• Anxiety or sadness that feels “out of nowhere”

• Insomnia or middle-of-the-night wake-ups

• Night sweats or hot flashes

• Breast tenderness

• Fatigue that no amount of sleep fixes

• Brain fog or trouble focusing

• Loss of interest in sex

• Weight gain, especially around the middle

These changes can feel confusing or overwhelming - especially when they don’t all show up at once.

What’s Not Normal - When to Get Support

While many symptoms are expected, some signals are worth discussing with your doctor:

• Periods that last longer than 10 days

• Bleeding between periods or after sex

• Debilitating anxiety or depression

• Severe pain or heavy clotting

• Sudden weight loss or gain without explanation

Perimenopause should be respected - not ignored or dismissed. And you’re allowed to advocate for better care, even if your lab tests are “normal.”

5 Empowering Things You Can Do Now

1. Track Your Symptoms

You are your best data source. Apps like Clue, Flo, or even a notebook can help you track the connection between mood, energy, sleep, and your cycle.

2. Prioritize Rest and Rhythm

You may need more recovery time, more quiet, and fewer “yes” commitments. Listen to your body’s need for steadiness.

3. Strengthen with Movement

Gentle strength training, walking, and yoga help support bones, metabolism, and mental clarity. Move for health - not punishment.

4. Eat for Hormone Support

Add healthy fats (avocados, seeds, olive oil), protein, and fibre-rich foods to support hormone balance and blood sugar.

5. Find Your Support Team

That might be a great doctor, a therapist, a coach, a support group, or trusted friends. You don’t have to go through this alone.

Bottom Line

Perimenopause is not a disease - it’s a powerful biological transition. But it can be messy, emotional, and misunderstood.

If you’ve ever thought:

“Why didn’t anyone tell me this?” Know that you’re not the only one - and you’re not going crazy. You’re just crossing a hormonal threshold.

And there is support, wisdom, and grace on the other side.