The fabulous four stages of menopause

Pre-menopause stage

As a woman in the pre-menopause stage, your body functions much like a well-tuned car. Your menstrual cycle is regular, your childbearing years are in full swing, and you experience no discernible signs of menopause. Just as driving a car feels effortless and almost automatic, this phase of your life is smooth sailing - you know how to 'turn over the engine' of your reproductive system, apply the 'brakes' when needed, and enjoy the technological advancements of your body's processes with the ease of a touch screen.

Technically, the pre-menopause stage encompasses any time before a woman enters the perimenopause transition towards menopause.

Your experiences and emotions are valid, and no one can dictate how you should feel about this significant life change

As a woman approaches menopause, understanding the four distinct stages and their associated symptoms and day-to-day experiences can be immensely helpful.

Perimenopause stage

Perimenopause, the transitional stage between pre-menopause and menopause, can begin in some women as early as their 30s, but more commonly starts in women ages 40 to 44. This period is marked by changes in menstrual flow and cycle length, and lasts for several years as the ovaries slowly stop functioning.

As your body transitions through perimenopause, with declining oestrogen production and fewer eggs being released, you may experience common symptoms. These can feel foreign and strange, like getting used to a brand new, highly advanced machine. While it's a fabulous, sophisticated system, it will take time to fully adjust and learn how to operate it at peak performance.

Symptoms you may experience

Shorter and increasingly irregular periods

Frequent changes in mood
Decreased sex drive
Hot flashes and night sweats
Vaginal dryness
Headaches
Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
Aching joints or muscles
A sudden wall of tiredness
Lack of enthusiasm to engage in activities
Reduced confidence

During perimenopause, a woman's fertility is reduced, making pregnancy less likely. However, it is still possible for a woman to become pregnant during this transitional stage.

Menopause stage

Menopause typically occurs in women between the ages of 30 and 60, though the average age of onset is 51. To be diagnosed as menopausal, a woman must have gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle, indicating that her ovaries have ceased functioning and are no longer releasing eggs.

For menopausal women, symptoms they may experience

Hot flashes are the most common complaint
In addition, these hot flashes may be accompanied by an increased heart rate
Women may also notice decreased breast fullness
Thinner hair
Increased growth of facial hair
Urinary incontinence as the pelvic floor becomes more relaxed
Headaches or Migraines
Weight gain
Decreased sex drive
Panic attacks
Depression
Brain fog
Irregular sleep patterns
Increased tiredness

Post-menopause stage

Once a woman's menstrual cycle has ceased for a full year, she is considered postmenopausal. This stage will last for the rest of her life. Fortunately, the disruptive symptoms that characterised the preceding perimenopause and menopause periods typically subside during this time, leaving most women more physically comfortable. However, the drop in oestrogen levels also increases the risk of certain health conditions, such as osteoporosis and heart disease.

For postmenopausal women, prioritising a healthy lifestyle is crucial.

Its time to start living your best life!

Embrace your empowerment - it's time to get out there and start travelling, exploring, and having fun. This is your moment to seize.
It's time to get more creative in the kitchen and explore new, nutrient-rich foods.
Joining the gym to tighten up muscles and keep cardio fit.
Incorporating a weekly pilates or yoga class can help maintain flexibility and suppleness.
Consider getting a professional bra fitting to ensure you are wearing the right size. Your breasts may have changed size during the last two stages.
Engaging in new activities and hobbies can help alleviate anxiety and depression. Immerse yourself in unfamiliar environments where people haven't met the old you, and let them get to know the new, empowered version of yourself.
Those of you considering hormone replacement therapy speak to a doctor or GP as HRT can be key to managing these hormone-related complications, but it can also cause harm if you suffer from other conditions.
Maintain a written journal or diary to capture your thoughts and experiences. This can make your future plans and goals feel more tangible and meaningful. Additionally, consider using the calendar or note-taking features on your phone to supplement your written records.

During all stages of perimenopause and menopause, it's crucial to share your feelings with trusted loved ones. If you can't confide in family or friends, speak to your doctor or healthcare provider.

Feeling detached or disconnected from your body during perimenopause and menopause is common. Remember, you're not alone in this journey - your experiences and emotions are valid, and no one can dictate how you should feel about this significant life change.

Consider joining our forum to discuss your experiences with other women going through perimenopause and menopause. Sharing your journey with a supportive community can help you feel better prepared for what lies ahead.

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