NAVIGATING PERI-MENOPAUSE: A PERSONAL JOURNEY
I always knew it was coming, but I wasn’t ready for my turn. Peri-menopause—the transitional phase before menopause—has been something I’d heard about, read about, and even joked about with friends. But when it arrived, I quickly realized that nothing truly prepares you for the emotional and physical whirlwind that comes with it.
Recently, I went through an extremely emotional week where I felt completely unmotivated, overwhelmed, and found myself crying at the smallest things. I was mad at the world and couldn’t quite explain why. It felt like a tidal wave of emotions crashing down on me without warning. One minute, I was fine, and the next, I was in tears over something as simple as a commercial or a random thought. I started questioning everything—was I overreacting? Was this normal? Was I losing control of myself?
Most of the time, I feel like myself, but then there are these moments—dark, confusing moments—that make me question my own sanity. I have yet to experience the infamous hot flashes, and from what I hear from my close friend who battles them daily, I consider that a small victory. Still, the unease of getting older and approaching full menopause is unsettling. The unpredictability of it all is frustrating—never knowing when I’ll wake up feeling perfectly fine or completely off-balance.
I remember saying for years, I can’t wait until my period stops! But now, as my cycle becomes irregular, the reality of menopause being just around the corner is setting in, and with it comes a mix of emotions. There’s relief, yes, but also a sense of loss, of change, of aging in a way I wasn’t quite ready to accept. It’s as if a chapter of my life is closing, and I’m not sure how to feel about it. Peri-menopause is not something to be taken lightly. It affects every aspect of life, from mood to energy levels, and it’s something we all should educate ourselves about—not just for our own sake but for the sake of those around us.
Understanding Peri-Menopause: Signs and Symptoms
Peri-menopause can start in a woman’s 40s (sometimes even earlier) and lasts until menopause officially begins. Here are some common symptoms to watch for:
Irregular periods – Periods may come earlier or later, be heavier or lighter, or last longer or shorter than usual.
Mood swings and emotional changes – Feelings of sadness, anxiety, irritability, and even unexplained rage can surface unexpectedly.
Fatigue – A deep exhaustion that isn’t always resolved by sleep.
Brain fog – Forgetfulness, trouble focusing, and difficulty making decisions.
Sleep disturbances – Waking up frequently, struggling to fall asleep, or experiencing night sweats.
Changes in libido – A decrease or increase in sexual desire.
Weight gain and metabolism changes – Particularly around the midsection.
Joint and muscle aches – Aches and pains that seem to appear out of nowhere.
Hot flashes and night sweats – Sudden, intense feelings of heat, though not everyone experiences them right away.
How Loved Ones Can Support Women Through Peri-Menopause
Peri-menopause is tough, but having supportive partners, family, and friends can make a world of difference. Here’s how you can help:
As a Husband or Partner:
Be patient and understanding. Mood swings are not personal attacks; they’re a symptom of hormonal shifts.
Educate yourself. Learn about peri-menopause so you can empathize and support without judgment.
Offer practical help. Whether it’s helping with household tasks on tough days or just being an active listener, small efforts go a long way.
Be flexible in intimacy. Changes in libido and body image issues can affect a woman’s confidence. Be reassuring and communicative.
As a Friend:
Be a safe space. Let her vent without trying to fix everything.
Encourage self-care. Invite her to do things that bring joy—whether it’s exercise, hobbies, or just relaxing together.
Avoid jokes at her expense. Peri-menopause is no laughing matter when you’re living through it.
As a Child of a Woman Going Through It:
Be patient. Your mom may not be as energetic or emotionally available as she once was, but she still loves you just as much.
Offer kindness instead of frustration. If she’s snappy or forgetful, understand that she’s dealing with something beyond her control.
Learn about it. Knowing what she’s going through will help you empathize and be more supportive.
Final Thoughts
Peri-menopause is a personal journey, but it’s not one that women should go through alone. The more we talk about it, the more we can break the stigma and create a supportive environment for all the women experiencing this major life transition. It’s a time of change, yes, but also a time to embrace a new phase of life with knowledge, support, and self-compassion.