What is Pre-Menopause?
Share
What is premenopause and how do you recognize it?
Menopause is a natural process in every woman's life, but the first phase, premenopause, can raise quite a few questions. Many women experience symptoms that they do not immediately recognize as a sign of hormonal changes. In this blog I will explain what premenopause exactly is, which symptoms are associated with it, what happens in your body and how you can support yourself during this phase. I will also explain when it is wise to call on my help.
What is premenopause?
Premenopause is the stage in your life when your body begins to prepare for the transition, or menopause. This period can start as early as your forties, but sometimes even earlier. During premenopause, your hormone levels fluctuate, and this can cause all sorts of physical and mental symptoms. It is important to know that premenopause is not a disease, but a natural process that every woman goes through.
What symptoms may indicate premenopause?
Not every woman experiences the same symptoms, but these are the most common signs of premenopause:
- Irregular menstruation (shorter or longer cycles, heavier or lighter bleeding).
- Mood swings, irritability or feelings of depression.
- Fatigue that doesn't go away, even after enough sleep.
- Hot flashes or night sweats.
- Insomnia or difficulty sleeping through the night.
- Weight gain, especially around your belly.
- Decreased libido.
- Dry skin or vaginal dryness.
- Hair loss or more facial hair.
Do you recognize several of these complaints? Then this may indicate hormonal changes that are part of the premenopause.
What's happening in your body?
During perimenopause, the production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone slowly decreases. These hormones play a crucial role in your menstrual cycle and influence many processes in your body, such as your energy level, mood and sleep.
Because the decline in hormones is not gradual but rather peaks and valleys, you can feel mixed. One day you may be bursting with energy, while the next day you may feel exhausted. Your ovaries are preparing to stop ovulating, which eventually leads to menopause: the last menstrual period.
Is premenopause the same for every woman?
No, premenopause is different for every woman. Some women hardly notice it, while others feel completely out of balance. How you experience this phase depends on factors such as:
- Age : The younger you are, the more unexpected the symptoms may feel.
- Genetics : The age at which your mother went through menopause can be an indication.
- Lifestyle : Stress, diet and exercise play a major role in how your body deals with hormonal changes.
- Health : Chronic illnesses or vitamin and mineral deficiencies can aggravate symptoms.
What can you do yourself?
Fortunately, there are things you can do yourself to alleviate your symptoms and maintain better balance:
- Healthy diet: Eat a varied diet with lots of vegetables, fruits, healthy fats and proteins. Avoid sugar and processed foods.
- Exercise: Regular exercise, such as walking, yoga, or strength training, helps keep your hormones balanced.
- Stress Management: Try to reduce stress by doing breathing exercises, meditating, or scheduling time for yourself.
- Sleep: A good sleep pattern is essential. Create a restful sleep environment and avoid screens before bed.
- Supplementation: Dietary supplements, such as magnesium or vitamin D, can help with specific complaints. Always choose high-quality supplements.
When do you call on my help?
If hormonal fluctuations affect your daily life and you don't know where to start, I can guide you. Together we will investigate what your body needs to regain balance. During a personal trajectory you will receive:
- Insight into what is happening in your body.
- Customized advice on nutrition, lifestyle and possible supplementation.
- Support to bring your hormones back into balance, so that you feel more energetic and better.
You don't have to go through this phase alone. My guidance will help you get a grip on your hormones, so that you can go through life with confidence and energy again.
Do you feel out of balance or do you want to know more about your hormonal health? Feel free to contact me. I am happy to help you!
