By: Joshua Finley
Being a woman in your 30s, 40s, and 50s can be challenging. You might be juggling a family or a career, and something else pops onto your plate when you think the waves have settled. And that thing is perimenopause. Perimenopause is the transitional phase women experience before menopause. It can last several years, potentially starting in your 30s, and has many side effects. Irregular periods, mood changes, hot flashes, and vaginal discomfort are all things associated with this phase. Entering perimenopause can be very uncomfortable and is different for each woman. But just because you are starting something new does not mean it has to have power over you. There are ways to take control of your health without spending a fortune.
Studies show that nearly 1.5 women enter perimenopause each year, meaning you are not alone in your fight. Millions of women have gone through the same things you are, so managing your symptoms is possible. Perimenopause often feels like another annoying task you have to deal with, but you don’t have to let it overtake you. You can still feel like yourself through at-home methods and lifestyle changes during this time.
“Every day, women are becoming more and more proactive regarding their health. They seek to grasp an understanding of their body and its transitions properly. Managing perimenopause is entirely possible; it just requires some effort on your end,” says Proov CEO Amy Beckley.
The first step to managing those annoying symptoms is to research to see what’s all out there. Instead of seeking expensive procedures or medicine, try some easy lifestyle changes. Many options are available, such as diet and exercise changes or even more natural supplements. Research is a good step because it can help guide you on the right path. Women don’t know what they don’t know, so taking extra time in your day to seek answers can help.
The second step is to try multiple methods. Every woman’s body is different, and what works for one person might not work for you. Perhaps a vigorous workout routine causes you more pain than someone else, or maybe you prefer more holistic measures such as acupuncture therapy. The key to managing perimenopause is finding a balance. The more centered your body and mind are, the better your body will feel.
“Regaining control over your body and well-being can feel incredibly overwhelming, especially if it requires you to shift your lifestyle. For many women, changing habits such as exercise and diet are a sound way to manage their symptoms. For example, a healthier diet can reduce symptoms like weight fluctuation and mood swings. You could implement herbal supplements to help balance your hormones or ease the increased stress you may be feeling. Navigating this transition is no easy feat, but making the necessary changes to your life can evoke a renewed sense of life,” Beckley says.
The third step is to believe in yourself and not give up. Perimenopause can affect women both physically and mentally, but you don’t have to let it control you. Yes, it can be uncomfortable, but you don’t have to live that way. You will have to work to find what works for you, but don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your doctor should be able to give you healthy advice, or you can even ask someone else going through perimenopause their tips and tricks.
Knowing you are not alone in this fight can help you continue. Women’s health is very complex, and perimenopause can sometimes happen out of the woodwork. Trust yourself because you deserve to feel like yourself no matter what phase of life you are in. It’s time to take back the perimenopause power.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
