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Everything feels different in my body. From my skin to my hair to my intimate areas — it’s all shifted. No amount of creams or lotions seems to restore the hydration my skin used to have. My previously playful Aries temperament has morphed into something more intense; it’s no longer just a phase but something deeper. I can’t keep blaming my mood swings on my zodiac sign anymore. I think it’s the onset of menopause, which is making itself known. My body is signaling that I’m experiencing perimenopause.
The Long List of Perimenopause Symptoms
Honestly, the list of symptoms is overwhelming, leaving me a little confused about what’s happening. Is it perimenopause, or just a funky mood? Here are some common signs that I’ve been noticing:
Hot Flashes
These can often be dismissed as just a bad day, but those unexpected sweats, the infamous hot flashes, can pop up even during perimenopause, not just menopause.
Irregular Periods
My menstrual cycle has become unpredictable. One month I might have a 60-day cycle, and the next, I could find myself dealing with a period every two weeks. It’s an all-too-fun rollercoaster.
Vaginal Dryness
Alongside mood swings, vaginal dryness rears its head, affecting me even outside of intimate moments. Here’s where a good lubricant becomes essential.
Painful Intercourse
Dyspareunia — painful intercourse — is a topic not often discussed openly. Increased dryness and thinning vaginal tissue can make intimacy uncomfortable, and it’s no surprise that many women report pain during sex due to insufficient lubrication, even when aroused.
Decreased Libido
As estrogen and testosterone levels drop, many women, myself included, notice a decline in sexual desire. Reaching orgasm can also become more challenging, and let’s be honest — who doesn’t want to enjoy that part of life?
A Surprising New Challenge: Elevated Cholesterol
Entering perimenopause is a major transition that can last up to ten years before menopause truly begins. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to rising cholesterol levels, which caught me off guard during my last check-up. I was shocked to find my LDL cholesterol had increased despite my relatively balanced diet.
Perhaps focusing on improving my HDL — the good cholesterol — can enhance my overall health. According to WebMD, there are proactive steps we can take to manage perimenopause symptoms, like exercising more, quitting smoking, getting better sleep, reducing alcohol intake, increasing calcium, and taking multivitamins — essentially, caring for our health as we navigate this new phase.
Embracing Change
I could choose to ignore these changes, but I’m learning to listen to my body. It’s not just about celebrating the absence of a regular period; it’s about recognizing and addressing the signals my body is sending. I’m trying to take some wisdom from Oprah regarding menopause: “Many women view menopause as an ending, but it’s actually a chance to redefine yourself after years of prioritizing others. It’s your moment to focus on what matters to you and pursue it wholeheartedly.” Amen to that!
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Summary
Perimenopause is an unavoidable phase that brings a multitude of changes, from physical symptoms like hot flashes and irregular periods to emotional shifts and decreased libido. Recognizing and embracing these changes can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life. By prioritizing self-care and being aware of our bodies, we can navigate this transition with grace and intention.
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