I talk about perimenopause a lot in my videos but what actually is perimenopause? (Something I didn’t know until I was suffering myself!)
What Is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the stage before menopause and can last up to ten years. The average age this starts is around forty-two to forty-seven, but it can start in your thirties!
It’s where your female hormones fluctuate massively which means blood tests don’t always pick it up.
The key symptoms of perimenopause are irregular periods, acne, sore breasts, and headaches, not forgetting the rage and anxiety. There are loads more too – some women get one or two, some get more.
The guidance in the UK is that doctors should prescribe based on age and symptoms, so if you think you have it download a symptom checker, tick the symptoms off, and take them to your doctor. The NICE guidelines state if you’re over 45 you don’t need a blood test for perimenopause as long as you have the correct symptoms.
And don’t forget to remind them that blood tests are often inconclusive.
If you are struggling with menopause, please visit your doctor to get help and support.
Want more advice?
Follow my TokTok here. Or read my other menopause blogs here.
Kate Beavis is Fearless at 50 – supporting women to be visible and fearless in midlife. This includes understanding your health, and well-being, building confidence, and more.
