Is It Hot in Here, or Am I Just Perimenopausal?

Hey there, Hot Flash Heroine! So, you’ve hit that wonderful phase called perimenopause. If you’ve ever wondered why you can be shivering one minute and fanning yourself with a catalog the next, welcome! You’re not alone, and we’re here to help. Let’s walk (or should I say, power surge) through this together.

Interactive Moment: Before we dive in, on a scale of 1 to “I’m about to lose it,” how’s your mood today?

• 😇 Totally Zen
• 😒 Meh, just okay
• 😡 Somewhere between mildly irritated and ‘someone hand me the chocolate’ 

What Is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional period before menopause when your body starts winding down its baby-making factory. (Or as I like to call it, “Mother Nature’s long, drawn-out farewell tour.”) It usually begins in your 40s but can start in your late 30s, because, why not? It’s characterized by fluctuating hormone levels, which can lead to a variety of symptoms.

Interactive Quiz Time: Which of the following is not a common symptom of perimenopause?

• A) Hot flashes
• B) Mood swings
• C) Sudden craving for 80s music
• D) Irregular periods 
• Answer: While 80s music is totally awesome, it’s not directly related to perimenopause. Hot flashes, mood swings, and irregular periods? Absolutely!

The Symptoms: It’s Not Just Hot Flashes

Perimenopause symptoms can be like playing a game of “Symptom Roulette.” Spin the wheel and see what today brings! Some common symptoms include:

• Hot Flashes: Imagine being cozy under a warm blanket, then suddenly feeling like you’re sitting inside a sauna. Yep, that’s a hot flash.
• Mood Swings: You might feel like Dr. Jekyll one minute and Mr. Hyde the next. And yes, that’s completely normal.
• Sleep Issues: Waking up at 3 a.m. for no apparent reason? It’s not your to-do list—it’s hormones.
• Forgetfulness: Ever walked into a room and forgotten why you’re there? Welcome to the club!

Interactive Moment: Which symptom drives you craziest?

• 🔥 Hot flashes
• 😠 Mood swings
• 😴 Sleepless nights
• 🤔 Brain fog

Managing Perimenopause: Tips to Survive and Thrive

The good news? There are ways to manage these symptoms so you can still be the fabulous you. Here are a few tried-and-true tips:

1. Stay Cool (Literally): Keep a fan handy, dress in layers, and choose breathable fabrics. Bonus points if you have a mini-fan that doubles as a water spritzer—instant relief!
2. Exercise (Even If You Don’t Want To): Exercise releases endorphins, which can help with mood swings and sleep. Plus, it’s a good excuse to buy cute new workout clothes.
3. Mindfulness & Relaxation: Meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can work wonders. And if all else fails, there’s always wine (in moderation, of course).
4. Balanced Diet: Think of food as fuel. A balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids can support bone health and overall well-being. Also, dark chocolate is good for the soul—just saying.
5. Talk About It: Whether with your doctor, therapist, or a group of girlfriends, sharing your experience can help you feel less alone. You’d be surprised how many of your friends are going through the same thing.

Interactive Moment: Which tip are you most likely to try today?

• 🧘 Meditation
• 🏃 Exercise
• 🥗 Eating healthier
• 👭 Talking it out

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Change

While perimenopause can be challenging, it’s also an opportunity to focus on yourself—something you may have neglected while juggling life’s many roles. Be kind to yourself, laugh through the weirdness, and remember, you’ve survived every stage so far—this one’s no different.

Follow our podcast, Effing Breathe, as we tackle perimenopause in Season 7.