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Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause: What’s Happening in Your Body?


Let’s chat about something that doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves—perimenopause and menopause. If you’ve been feeling a bit “off” lately and wondering what’s going on, you’re definitely not alone. These natural life stages bring some big changes, and it can be helpful to understand what’s happening behind the scenes. Having that knowledge can make all the difference in how you feel.


exercise through menopause


What’s Actually Going On?


Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause, where your hormones (mainly estrogen and progesterone) start to shift. It’s not something that happens overnight—it can actually take years before you officially reach menopause, which is marked by 12 months without a period. During this time, your body is undergoing some pretty big changes, and these hormonal shifts don’t just affect your reproductive system—they can have an impact on your whole body. Let’s break down some of the ways this might show up:


Muscle & Strength


Estrogen plays an important role in helping maintain muscle mass. As estrogen levels begin to decline, it’s natural for muscle mass to decrease too. This can make it harder to build strength and can leave you feeling fatigued more often.



strength training - menopause

Weight Gain


As your hormones shift, your metabolism can slow down, and the way your body stores fat can change. You might notice more weight around your midsection—this is completely normal, even though it can feel frustrating at times.


Bone Health


Estrogen helps keep bones strong and dense. When your estrogen levels drop, it can lead to a decrease in bone density, making your bones more fragile and increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.


Fatigue & Sleep Disruptions


Hormonal changes can mess with your sleep cycle, making it more difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night. This can lead to feeling tired during the day, which only adds to the stress and frustration you might already be feeling.


Joint Stiffness & Discomfort


Since estrogen has anti-inflammatory properties, when its levels drop, you might experience more aches and stiffness in your joints. This can make physical activity feel more challenging and can add to feelings of discomfort.


Mood Swings & Brain Fog


The fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone also affect neurotransmitters in the brain. This can lead to mood swings, increased anxiety, forgetfulness, and difficulty concentrating—sometimes leaving you feeling “foggy” or like your emotions are all over the place.



exercise through menopause

It’s All Real – You’re Not Alone


It’s important to know that what you’re going through during perimenopause and menopause is not just in your head. Your body is truly going through changes, and they can be tough to deal with. Many women find themselves feeling like they’ve lost their rhythm or sense of control. And since symptoms can vary so much from person to person, it’s easy to feel like you’re wandering through this phase without a map.


You might feel isolated, like no one really understands what’s happening to you. Or maybe you’re hearing advice from all directions, and none of it seems to click. That’s why it’s so important to reach out to specialists who understand perimenopause and menopause—they can help you navigate this time with the care and attention you deserve.


Reach Out for Support


Whether it’s your doctor, a nutritionist, a therapist, or a hormone specialist, talking to someone who understands what’s going on with your body can make a huge difference. They can offer advice that’s tailored to you, helping you feel empowered and supported as you go through this transition. And remember, there’s no shame in seeking help. In fact, it’s one of the best ways to take control of your health and well-being.


This time in your life might feel like an emotional rollercoaster, but it’s also an opportunity to get to know yourself in a whole new way. By reaching out and advocating for what you need, you can ensure that you have the support to manage this transition with grace. If you’re feeling off or unsure about what’s going on, don’t hesitate to ask for help. You deserve it—and your body will thank you for it.


I’ve previously talked about how exercise can play a key role in managing some of the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause (you can read another post here) and in my experience working with many  women at this stage of life I’ve seen firsthand how physical activity can support your body through these changes. From managing fatigue to boosting mood and even helping with joint discomfort, exercise can be an incredibly empowering tool. However, I know that every woman’s journey through this stage is unique, which is why I encourage you to reach out. Whether it’s tailored exercise programs or simply having a conversation about what you're going through, I’m here to help guide you through this transition with personalised support. You don’t have to do this alone—together, we can find a path that works best for you.

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Susan McFarlane
07954163994

susan@streamlinept.co.uk

 

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