Download my free meditation for navigating perimenopause with more ease and self-compassion. (click on the image)

Perimenopause is an enigmatic journey that many women find themselves navigating without a guidebook. It's a significant phase of transition that can start as early as the thirties and continue into the fifties. Yet, shockingly, only around 20% of women are familiar with perimenopause, despite it being a universal experience. To shed light on this transformative stage, I dedicated an episode of my podcast, The Alchemy of Light and Shadow, to exploring this topic with a group of incredible women. In this blog, I share their stories, insights, and lessons so that you, too, can find understanding, connection, and support.

Listen to the group discussion around perimenopause on my podcast below

Understanding Perimenopause: A Silent Revolution

While menopause is well-known, perimenopause remains shrouded in mystery. Kira, one of my podcast guests, described it as the second biggest hormonal shift in a woman's life, yet one that remains largely unspoken. Many women are caught off guard by symptoms ranging from mood swings and exhaustion to insomnia and heart palpitations.

Nelia, another guest, highlighted the lack of societal acknowledgment around perimenopause, making it vital to spread awareness and normalize discussions. By openly sharing our experiences, we empower more women to recognize and address their symptoms.

Real Voices, Real Experiences

During the podcast episode, my guests shared candid anecdotes about how perimenopause has affected their lives:

Tanille’s Journey with HRT: Initially wary of medication, Tanille found hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to be a game-changer. It helped her regain energy and combat insomnia, though she acknowledges it’s a deeply personal decision.

Nelia’s Heart Condition and Mood Swings: She struggled with unexplained heart palpitations, initially fearing a serious health condition. After consultations with specialists, she discovered they were linked to perimenopause. She also noted increased mood swings and rage—something many women can relate to.

Kira’s Late Onset Perimenopause: Beginning her perimenopausal journey at 50 while still raising a young child, Kira faced extreme fatigue, night sweats, and emotional turbulence. She found relief through supplements like Omega-3 and vitamin B12, which helped clear brain fog and stabilize her mood.

The Positive Side of Perimenopause

While much of the discussion focused on the challenges of perimenopause, we also explored its empowering aspects:

Letting Go of People-Pleasing: Many of us agreed that perimenopause has emboldened us to speak up and set boundaries. Gone are the days of swallowing our opinions to keep the peace. This newfound confidence is a gift.

Reclaiming Our Space: Nelia eloquently expressed how perimenopause made her more assertive in the workplace. She no longer fakes a sweet demeanor to appease others, instead embracing her true voice.

Increased Political and Social Awareness: Several of us noted a heightened intolerance for injustice, both personally and globally. Perimenopause has been a catalyst for activism and speaking out against systemic issues.

Navigating the Challenges Together

One of the key takeaways from our conversation was the importance of support. By sharing our experiences, we can normalize perimenopause and ensure the next generation of women is better prepared.

Kira insightfully highlighted how perimenopause taught her to trust life’s processes, even its unfamiliar and daunting elements. Reframing this phase not as a struggle but as an opportunity for growth can make all the difference.

Conclusion: Celebrating the Warrior Within

Perimenopause is a mosaic of challenges, discoveries, and empowerment. It prompts us to redefine success, self-worth, and relationships. As we navigate this phase, let’s honor our transformations and support one another.

Join me in continuing this conversation on The Alchemy of Light and Shadow, where we explore the intersections of grounded spirituality and personal growth. You can listen to the full episode below

Click below to listen to the full podcast episode and download your free meditation for navigating perimenopause with greater ease and self-compassion here.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Perimenopause

1. What is perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, where hormonal fluctuations cause symptoms like irregular periods, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. It typically begins in a woman's 40s but can start as early as the late 30s.

2. How long does perimenopause last?

Perimenopause can last anywhere from a few years to over a decade. On average, it lasts about four to eight years before menopause officially begins (defined as going 12 consecutive months without a period).

3. What are the most common symptoms of perimenopause?

Common symptoms include:

Hot flashes and night sweats

Mood swings and increased anxiety

Brain fog and memory issues

Irregular periods

Vaginal dryness and reduced libido

Fatigue and sleep disturbances

Heart palpitations

Weight gain and metabolic changes

4. Can perimenopause be diagnosed through a test?

While hormone tests can provide some insight, perimenopause is primarily diagnosed based on symptoms. Blood tests may check levels of estrogen, progesterone, FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), and thyroid function, but these levels fluctuate daily, making it challenging to rely on testing alone.

5. What treatments or lifestyle changes can help with symptoms?

Treatment varies based on individual needs. Some women find relief through:

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Helps balance hormone levels and alleviate symptoms.

Dietary Supplements: Omega-3, vitamin D, magnesium, and B vitamins can support mood and brain function.

Exercise and Movement: Regular movement can improve sleep, reduce stress, and maintain a healthy weight.

Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices like yoga, deep breathing, and guided meditation can ease stress and emotional turbulence.

6. When should I seek medical help for perimenopause symptoms?

If your symptoms are significantly affecting your quality of life—such as severe anxiety, depression, extreme fatigue, or debilitating hot flashes—consult a healthcare provider to explore treatment options tailored to your needs.