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Perimenopause is the time before menopause.

During this time, your hormones begin to change.

As a result, your body may feel different. Your mood may change too.

You may feel tired, worried, angry, sad, or unlike yourself.

Some women have only a few changes. Others have many.

Every woman is different.

You deserve support through every part of this change.

What Is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is a normal stage of life.

It happens before menopause.

During this time, hormone levels can go up and down.

Because of this, your periods may change.

Your sleep may change too.

You may also notice changes in your mood, energy, or body.

These changes can be confusing.

However, learning what is happening can help.

Changes You May Notice

Perimenopause can affect many parts of your life.

For example, you may notice:

• Changes in your periods
• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Trouble sleeping
• Low energy
• Headaches
• Body changes
• Lower interest in sex
• Vaginal dryness
• Breast soreness
• Trouble focusing
• Forgetfulness
• Mood changes

Some symptoms may come and go.

Others may last longer.

So, pay attention to what your body is telling you.

Your Mood May Change

Perimenopause can affect how you feel.

You may worry more than before.

You may become upset more easily.

Small problems may suddenly feel very big.

You may also feel sad or low.

At times, you may simply feel “off.”

These feelings matter.

Therefore, do not ignore changes that are making daily life harder.

Talk with someone you trust.

Also, speak with a healthcare provider if you need more support.

Brain Fog Can Be Frustrating

You may walk into a room and forget why you went there.

You may lose your keys.

You may forget a word you know well.

At work, it may be harder to focus.

This can be frustrating.

Poor sleep and stress may make it worse.

So, give yourself a little extra time.

Use notes.

Set reminders.

Keep a calendar.

Most of all, be patient with yourself.

Sleep Matters

Sleep can become harder during perimenopause.

You may have trouble falling asleep.

Or, you may wake up during the night.

Hot flashes may wake you too.

As a result, you may feel tired the next day.

Poor sleep can also affect your mood and focus.

Therefore, try to protect your sleep.

Create a calm bedtime routine.

Keep your room comfortable.

Also, talk with your healthcare provider if sleep problems continue.

Your Body May Change

Your body may look or feel different.

Your weight may change.

Your skin or hair may change too.

Periods may become hard to predict.

Sex may also feel different.

These changes can affect how you feel about yourself.

Still, your body deserves care and respect.

Try to be kind to yourself during this change.

Relationships May Feel Different

Perimenopause can affect relationships too.

You may feel tired.

You may have less patience.

You may want more space.

Your interest in sex may also change.

Therefore, talk with the people you love.

Tell them what you need.

You might say:

“I don’t feel like myself today.”

“I need some quiet time.”

“I need more rest.”

“I need you to listen.”

Clear words can help other people understand.

Stress Can Feel Bigger

Life is already busy.

You may have a job.

You may care for children.

You may also help aging parents.

Then, perimenopause adds more changes.

That can feel like a lot.

So, give yourself permission to slow down.

Take breaks.

Ask for help.

Set limits when you need them.

You do not have to do everything alone.

Small Things Can Help

You do not need to change your whole life.

Start small.

Take a walk.

Drink water.

Eat regular meals.

Get outside.

Rest when you can.

Spend time with people you enjoy.

Try slow breathing when you feel stressed.

Also, make time for things that bring you joy.

Small steps still matter.

Keep Track of Changes

It can help to write down what you notice.

Track your periods.

Write down when you have hot flashes.

Notice changes in your sleep.

Also, keep track of your mood and energy.

This can help you see patterns.

Then, you can share that information with your healthcare provider.

Talk With Your Healthcare Provider

You do not have to suffer in silence.

Talk with your healthcare provider if symptoms are bothering you.

Tell them about changes in your body.

Also, tell them about changes in your mood.

Ask questions.

There may be ways to help with your symptoms.

However, the best choice will depend on your health and needs.

Take Your Mental Health Seriously

Your mental health matters during perimenopause.

Do not ignore sadness, fear, worry, or anger that becomes hard to manage.

Instead, reach out.

Talk with someone you trust.

You can also speak with a counselor, doctor, or other mental health professional.

Getting support early can help.

You Are Still You

Perimenopause is a change.

It is not the end of who you are.

Your body may change.

Your needs may change.

Your feelings may change too.

Still, you are you.

Be patient with yourself.

Listen to your body.

Rest when you need to.

Ask for help.

Most importantly, remember:

You matter.

Your feelings matter.

Your body matters.

Your mental health matters.

You deserve care and support through every stage of life.