Demystifying Perimenopause: What It Is, When It Starts, and How to Manage It

Perimenopause and menopause are words that can strike fear into many women’s hearts. The transition from fertility to a new stage of life can feel like a daunting, confusing process. But don’t worry—we’re here to shed some light on perimenopause, break down what it means, and equip you with the knowledge to navigate this phase of life with confidence. Knowledge is power, and understanding perimenopause can make this natural transition less overwhelming. So, let’s dive in!

What is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the phase leading up to menopause, which is the point when a woman hasn’t had a period for 12 consecutive months. It typically lasts anywhere from 4 - 10 years, and during this time, your body’s hormonal fluctuations may cause a variety of changes, including shifts in your menstrual cycle and other physical and emotional symptoms. While menopause marks the end of your reproductive years, perimenopause is your body’s way of gradually transitioning away from them.

While it’s a natural part of life, many women find the changes that come with perimenopause unsettling, especially when they don’t know what to expect. The good news is that with the right knowledge and support, you ​​can manage the symptoms and feel empowered as you navigate this stage.

When Does Perimenopause Start?

You might think perimenopause starts in your 40s, but it can actually begin much earlier—sometimes as early as your mid-30s! That’s right, perimenopause may start before you even realize it. Your body is gradually changing, and your hormone levels—particularly estrogen and progesterone—begin to fluctuate. These changes can lead to noticeable symptoms, although the onset and severity can vary for every woman.

It’s important to know that perimenopause isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience. Some women will experience it more intensely than others, but rest assured, this transition is completely normal, and there’s plenty you can do to manage it.

What Happens with Hormones During Perimenopause?

One of the primary reasons perimenopause can be such a rollercoaster is due to hormonal changes. During this time, the levels of estrogen and progesterone—the two key female hormones—begin to fluctuate and decline. These hormonal shifts are responsible for many of the common symptoms experienced during perimenopause. Let’s break it down:

• Estrogen: Estrogen levels begin to decrease during perimenopause, leading to irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Estrogen also affects mood, so fluctuations in this hormone can contribute to mood swings, anxiety, and irritability.

• Progesterone: Progesterone also drops during perimenopause, which can lead to heavier or irregular periods. Since progesterone helps balance estrogen in the body, an imbalance can cause symptoms like bloating, irritability, and fatigue.

• Testosterone: Although it's typically considered a male hormone, women also produce testosterone. During perimenopause, testosterone levels can decrease, which may lead to a decreased libido and reduced energy levels.

These fluctuations are part of the natural process of perimenopause as your body adjusts to the transition away from reproductive years. This hormonal upheaval can affect much more than just your menstrual cycle—it impacts your overall health and well-being.

What Are the Symptoms of Perimenopause?

Perimenopause affects much more than just your period—it can impact your entire body and mind. While irregular menstrual cycles are one of the most obvious signs, here are some other common symptoms you might experience:

• Irregular periods: Your cycle might become shorter or longer, and your flow may become lighter or heavier.

• Hot flashes: Sudden waves of heat, often accompanied by sweating, can be one of the most uncomfortable symptoms.

• Night sweats: Hot flashes that occur at night can interrupt sleep, leaving you feeling fatigued.

• Mood swings: Hormonal shifts can cause irritability, anxiety, or even bouts of sadness.

• Sleep disturbances: Many women experience insomnia or disrupted sleep during perimenopause.

• Fatigue: Feeling more tired than usual, even after a full night’s rest, is common during this time.

• Weight gain: Changes in metabolism can lead to an increase in weight, especially around the belly area.

• Decreased libido: A drop in estrogen and other hormones may affect your sexual desire.

• Vaginal Dryness: During perimenopause, falling estrogen levels can cause vaginal tissue to become thinner and drier, causing itching and irritation. It may also be a source of pain during intercourse, further contributing to a decline in sexual desire.

As you can see, perimenopause is about more than just your period. It’s a whole-body experience, and while it can be challenging, there are steps you can take to manage the symptoms.

What Can You Do to Manage Perimenopause Symptoms?

Managing perimenopause symptoms is about more than just accepting the changes; it’s about finding ways to take care of yourself during this time. Here are a few tips to help you feel more in control:

• Maintain a healthy diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Staying hydrated and cutting back on alcohol and caffeine can also help ease some symptoms.

• Exercise regularly: Physical activity can help manage weight, improve mood, and ease the severity of hot flashes and night sweats.

• Prioritize sleep: Create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you sleep better. Avoid screens before bed, and keep your bedroom cool and comfortable.

• Manage stress: Practice stress-relieving activities such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to help balance your mood.

• Talk to your doctor: If your symptoms are severe or affecting your quality of life, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Hormone therapy or other treatments may be appropriate for some women.

In addition to lifestyle changes, certain supplements can also support your body during perimenopause and help manage those uncomfortable symptoms. Let’s take a closer look at the supplements from Pink Stork designed to support you through this transition.

Supplements Formulated to Support You Through Perimenopause 

At Pink Stork, we understand that perimenopause can be a tough phase to navigate. That's why we've developed products specifically formulated to ease symptoms and support your hormonal health. Here are three Pink Stork supplements that can help:

• Menopause Support: Our Menopause Support supplement is packed with natural ingredients like black cohosh and chasteberry to support hormone balance and ease symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings. It's designed to provide comprehensive relief as you transition through perimenopause and beyond.

• Hormone Balance Gummies: These delicious gummies are formulated with ingredients like Red Raspberry Leaf, Evening Primrose Oil, and Black Cohosh to support your body’s natural hormonal rhythms. They help ease common symptoms like irritability, fatigue, and changes in your menstrual cycle, making it easier to feel balanced and in control.

• DIM: Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a compound found in cruciferous vegetables that supports healthy estrogen metabolism. Our DIM supplement helps balance estrogen levels, which can ease the severity of hot flashes and other perimenopausal symptoms.

Each of these supplements is crafted to help balance your hormones, ease discomfort, and support your body during perimenopause, allowing you to feel more comfortable and confident as you navigate this stage.

About Pink Stork

At Pink Stork, we believe in supporting women through every stage of life. From fertility to menopause, hormonal imbalance, general wellness and beyond, we are here to educate, inform, and empower you to take control of your health and well-being. We understand the challenges that come with perimenopause, and our mission is to provide the support and resources you need to feel your best during this time of transition.

We’re more than just a wellness brand—we’re a community of women supporting women. If you have any questions about perimenopause or want to know more about our products, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to walk with you through every stage of life.

What else do you want to know about perimenopause? Let us know! Email us at cs@pinkstork.com—we’d love to hear from you!

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References:

Delamater, L., & Santoro, N. (2018). Management of the Perimenopause. Clinical obstetrics and gynecology, 61(3), 419–432. https://doi.org/10.1097/GRF.0000000000000389 

Perimenopause: Rocky road to Menopause. Harvard Health. (2022, August 9). https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/perimenopause-rocky-road-to-menopause  

Santoro N. (2016). Perimenopause: From Research to Practice. Journal of women's health (2002), 25(4), 332–339. https://doi.org/10.1089/jwh.2015.5556