Everyday occurrence of an overlooked perimenopause symptom disclosed by Dr. Punam Krishan
Perimenopause, a phase many women underestimate or misinterpret, isn't just about hot flushes and missed periods. Instead, it can sneak up years before menopause actually kicks in, and women often confuse it with exhaustion, stress, or anger. Dr. Punam Krishan, a GP and former Strictly Come Dancing star, emphasizes this confusion, stating in an Instagram video that it's not uncommon for women to feel like they're failing or even "going crazy."
From anxiety and low mood to pure rage, sleep disruptions, brain fog, joint pain, and deep-boned fatigue, perimenopause can manifest differently for everyone. Even regular periods won't rule out perimenopause. Unfortunately, these symptoms often go unnoticed or dismissed as stress, burnout, or even depression.
Dr. Krishan, who regularly appears on the BBC's Morning Live program, wants to raise awareness about perimenopause's early signs and encourage women to seek advice and support. Addressing the common misconception, she says, "Perimenopause isn't just tiredness and stress. You're not making it up, you're not going crazy. Perimenopause is real and powerful. It's a transition to a new phase. It's a whole new identity."
Menopause, defined as when periods have stopped for a year, typically occurs at the age of 51 in the UK, according to the British Menopause Society. However, perimenopause symptoms can manifest much earlier, around your late 30s or early 40s.
In a five to ten-year gap between psychological and physical symptoms, we might expect to see them all at once. A study by the women's health app Flo found that mental health symptoms, such as anxiety, irritability, and depression, were highest in women aged 41 to 45 and lowest in those aged 56 and older. Physical symptoms, like hot flushes, sleep issues, excessive sweating, vaginal dryness, and low libido, were more common in women aged 51 to 55.
It's essential to remember that everyone experiences menopause differently. Some will feel its impact more than others, affecting quality of life, relationships, and mental health. If you're concerned, don't hesitate to speak to your doctor.
To manage perimenopause symptoms, consider regular exercise to relieve stress and improve sleep, quit smoking, cut down on alcohol, find a relaxation technique that works best for you, and maintain a balanced lifestyle. You deserve to feel like yourself again, so take control and seek the support you need during this transition.
- The transition of perimenopause can affect not only physical health, such as hot flushes and sleep issues, but also mental health, leading to anxiety, irritability, and depression.
- In the health-and-wellness field, it's crucial to acknowledge that women going through perimenopause may struggle with relationships due to changes in mood and energy levels.
- During this phase, women may find solace in women's-health practices and communities that focus on beauty and self-care to help navigate the challenges of perimenopause and regain a sense of wellness and identity.
- Seeking guidance from professionals, like primary care physicians, or attending science-based seminars on health and wellness can provide menopausal women with the knowledge and resources they need to manage their symptoms and maintain a healthy home environment.
