My Perimenopause Survival Guide

Remember that scene in Fried Green Tomatoes where Evelyn Couch cries, “I am too young to be old and too old to be young”? That perfectly captures the feeling of perimenopause – a stage shrouded in secrecy. Back in my 30s, I mistakenly believed menopause was something distant, solely defined by the cessation of periods. Looking back, I couldn’t have been more wrong!

I know now that Perimenopause snuck up on me in my early 40s, not with the most known symptom associated with menopause like hot flashes, but with bloating, occasional constipation and tidal waves of emotions. It felt like a volcano simmering within me, ready to erupt over seemingly insignificant things. My daughter, bless her, often found herself unwittingly pushing my buttons. Disagreements became frequent, and instead of taking a step back, I’d get caught in the heat of the moment. As my husband, Mr. D, would jokingly say, she’d cast out her fishing line and hook me right in.

Fast forward to today and embracing perimenopause a Holistic Approach

Fast forward to today, and I’m a much calmer and more composed version of myself. I am not sure my family would agree but  I think I have come a long way. While perimenopause may still be present, I’ve discovered a toolbox of strategies that help me navigate the emotional roller coaster and cultivate inner peace:

Embracing a Holistic Approach:

• Ditching Aluminium Deodorants: Years ago, I switched to Natural Deodorants to avoid potential hormonal interference. I tried various brands but my current favourite is Salt of the Earth – Natural Deodorant Crystal Classic. Check them out here: Salt of the Earth
• Wild Yam Cream: I’ve been following Barbara O’Neill for a while, and her recommendation of Anna’s Wild Yam Cream intrigued me. But a year ago, you couldn’t get the cream in the UK, and I found a similar cream on Amazon and noticed a difference after consistent use. Napiers Wild Yam Cream
• DIM Supplements: In my early 40s, I took DIM supplements derived from cruciferous vegetables to help balance estrogen dominance. Health Benefits of DIM

Prioritising Physical and Mental Wellbeing:

• Exercise: Regular strength training at the gym which helps increase bone density, reducing the risk of fractures and maintaining strong, resilient bones, Read Dr Stacy Sims blog on women and strength training. I couldn’t be without my swimming (both sea and pool) which keeps me feeling mentally strong and energised.
• Diet Adjustments: I significantly reduced alcohol intake due to its negative impact on sleep, heart health, and weight. Herbal teas like licorage roots, dandelion and nettle became a staple.
• Supplements: Magnesium, creatine, collagen, omega-3s, and milk thistle support my overall health, especially with increased weight training. A brand I highly recommend is British Supplements. Their Supplements are clean, high strength, without any fillers and other nasties. I also love the owner’s ethos on fighting the big coperations. Find it here: British Supplements
• Dietary Changes: Less meat, more fiber, fruits/vegetables, and pulses/beans became a focus.
• Skincare Tweaks: Annoying perimenopausal breakouts led me to ditch conventional products and embrace natural solutions like castor oil, jojoba oil, and even DIY face creams and oils (see my blog about skincare).

Early Sun Exposure and Lymphatic Drainage:

• Whenever possible, I catch the first rays of sunshine. This helps regulate my circadian rhythm and provides a natural dose of vitamin D, both contributing to better sleep and overall mood.
• A couple of times a week, I do lymphatic drainage sessions (tapping lymphs across the body). This gentle massage technique helps my body eliminate toxins and promotes a sense of well-being.

No One-Size-Fits-All: Navigating Perimenopause on Your Terms

It’s important to remember that navigating perimenopause is a deeply personal journey. While the holistic approach has worked wonders for me, there’s no single “right” way to manage this transition. Some women find immense relief through hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and that’s perfectly valid. Ultimately, the key is to prioritise your well-being and explore what works best for you. Remember, this is not medical advice, and consulting your doctor is crucial for personalised guidance throughout this phase.

Let’s be honest, even with the best intentions, life isn’t always perfectly balanced. There are days when the supplements get forgotten, the pizza cravings win, and the sofa beckons more than exercising. I’m not Superwoman, and these practices are what I strive for most days, not a rigid rule book. It’s about finding a sustainable approach that works for you, with a little grace for those moments when self-care takes a backseat.

Connecting with other women that go through perimenopause

Another aspect that has been incredibly helpful throughout this journey is connecting with other women going through a similar experience. Sharing stories, comparing symptoms, and discovering solutions that others have found beneficial has been invaluable. My local swimming group, for instance, has become a wonderful source of support. The open exchange of experiences and solutions to struggles we might have faced alone is truly empowering. Talking openly about perimenopause, whether through local groups or online forums, can provide a sense of community and understanding that can be incredibly comforting during this transition.

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