Feeling Like a Weirdo? 5 Signs You’re Probably in Perimenopause (and What to Do About It!)

Feeling a little off lately? Periods acting strange, sudden bursts of heat making you question your proximity to the sun, and mood swings that would rival a rollercoaster? You might be entering the wonderful world of perimenopause, the pre-show to menopause.

Don’t worry, this ain’t some scary medical jargon fest. Think of it as catching up with a friend who’s been through it all and wants to spill the tea.

So, what’s the deal with perimenopause?

Imagine your ovaries are like teenagers going through mood swings. One day they’re pumping out estrogen like crazy, the next they’re chilling on the couch. This hormonal rollercoaster can cause your periods to go AWOL, make you feel like you’re spontaneously combusting, and leave your emotions on a wild ride.

How do you know you’re in the perimenopause club?

Here are some signs to watch out for:

1. Periods gone rogue: They might be longer, shorter, MIA, or show up unannounced like a surprise party.
2. Feeling like you’re living in the Sahara? Hot flashes are your body’s internal thermostat malfunctioning.
3. Mood swings that would make a drama queen jealous: One minute you’re laughing, the next you’re ready to cry. It’s all thanks to the hormonal tango.
4. Sleep? What sleep? Catching some Zzz’s becomes as easy as solving a Rubik’s cube in the dark.
5. Libido doing the limbo: It might go up, down, or stay the same. It’s a hormonal lottery! ‍♀️

And then comes menopause, the grand finale of your monthly cycle.

Once you haven’t had a period for a whole year, your ovaries are officially retired. They’ve hung up their egg-releasing hats and dialed down on the estrogen production.

How do you know you’ve reached menopause?

The biggest clue? No periods for a year straight. But since perimenopause can already mess with your cycle, it’s like trying to find a black cat in a dark room.

Other signs include:

• Hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and sleep troubles: These can linger on from perimenopause.
• Vaginal dryness: Less estrogen can make things down there a bit less lubricated.
• Urinary issues: You might need to pee more often or experience some discomfort.

So, how do you navigate these changes like a boss?

• Listen to your body: It’s working hard! Rest when you need to, and move your body when it craves it. 
• Beat the heat: Dress in layers, keep a fan handy, and explore cooling solutions.
• Embrace the emotional waves: It’s okay to not be okay. Talk to friends, journal, or seek professional help if needed.
• Prioritize sleep: Create a relaxing bedtime routine and make your sleep haven cozy and inviting.
• Keep the spark alive: Talk to your partner, explore new ways to connect, and consider products for vaginal dryness.
• Connect with others: Talk to friends, join online communities, or find support groups (we’re here).
• Talk to your doctor: They can offer guidance, explore treatment options, and answer all your questions. 

Menopause is a transition, but it doesn’t have to be a scary one. By listening to your body, seeking support, and embracing these changes, you can navigate this new chapter with confidence and grace. Remember, menopause is a new beginning, filled with its own set of freedoms and opportunities. So, let’s rock this journey together, one hot flash and hormone swing at a time!

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• Category: Perimenopause
• Tag: perimenopause