During perimenopause, the crazy fluctuation in Oestrogen and the eventual decline of our reproductive hormones impacts all areas of our body. This includes the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal body systems, the brain, the skin and hair and mental health. Yep, and there’s more, not forgetting our libido takes a dive, our vaginas feel unusual, and our general self-confidence implodes.
Often these symptoms are swept under the carpet and tolerated due to busy work lives, multi-tasking mums, extended responsibilities, and often a mixture of all of these. For this reason, women often put off seeking advice. They can feel totally overwhelmed by the symptoms that they simply can’t see the ‘wood for the trees’ or feel that their symptoms aren’t the same as their friends.
Among these recognised symptoms women often report feeling fatigued and lethargic, sleep issues, low and variable mood, anxiety, hot flushes, night sweats, itchy skin and joint pain.
Taking a holistic approach to perimenopause is recognised widely and promoted, especially as HRT is not always an option or a preferred method of management.