Perimenopause surprises many women, as bodily changes can begin unnoticed years before the actual onset of menopause. Symptoms of perimenopause have only recently started to be discussed more. We wanted to provide you with information and an article delving into what happens during perimenopause, what causes the symptoms, and how you can support your body and mind during this natural transition!
So, what does perimenopause mean?
Perimenopause refers to the transitional phase when ovarian function gradually begins to decline, and the secretion of sex hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, becomes irregular.
The first signs of hormonal changes can start around the age of 40, when the menstrual cycle may initially shorten by a couple of days. Perimenopause lasts individually from a few years to even a decade before actual menopause, i.e., the final cessation of menstruation. However, everything is individual, so it is important to be as forgiving as possible to oneself.
The most common symptoms of perimenopause
Fluctuations in hormone levels can cause a variety of physical and psychological symptoms. Because the cycle may remain relatively regular for a long time, not all symptoms are immediately recognized as being related to hormonal activity.
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Changes in the menstrual cycle: The cycle may shorten, lengthen, or become unpredictable. The amount of bleeding may vary from heavy to very light.
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Mood swings and fatigue: Irritability, anxiety, low mood, unexplained exhaustion, and brain fog are early signs of declining hormone levels.
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Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, waking up at night, and interrupted sleep become more common.
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Hot flashes and night sweats: Although these are the best-known menopausal symptoms, they can occur mildly and occasionally during perimenopause.
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Changes in body composition and swelling: Metabolism slows down, the body may retain fluids more easily, and the proportion of fat tissue in body composition may increase.
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Dryness of skin and mucous membranes: Decreased estrogen reduces skin elasticity and increases dryness of skin and mucous membranes. Many may be surprised by lesser-known symptoms, such as relentless ear itching, burning mouth syndrome, or a metallic taste in the mouth.
How to support your body during perimenopause?
Listening to your body and lifestyle choices are key to managing the changes brought on by perimenopause.
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Nutritious and balanced diet: Emphasize fiber-rich foods, healthy fats, and adequate protein intake to maintain metabolism and muscle mass.
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Regular exercise: Combine strength training with restorative movement. Strength training supports bones and metabolism, while gentle outdoor activities alleviate symptoms and reduce stress. Listen to your body.
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Sufficient sleep and recovery: Take moments for rest and calming down in your daily life. Good sleep and rest support hormonal function and help you cope.
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Right products and skincare: The needs of the body and skin change, so updating your daily care products to meet new needs brings comfort and well-being to every day.
Days by Dahlia – Natural support and softness for bodily changes
The changes in the body during perimenopause require gentleness and proper care. Days by Dahlia offers products designed to support a woman's body and enhance daily comfort amidst hormonal changes:
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Support for dry skin and mucous membranes: Declining estrogen levels thin and dry out skin and mucous membranes. Our range of nourishing and gentle care products effectively moisturizes, soothes irritation, and restores the skin's natural elasticity, without endocrine disruptors.
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Help for hormonal hair loss: Our scalp-nourishing hair tonic is suitable for even the finest hair types. This leave-in hair tonic helps nourish the scalp and care for the hair during and after hormonal hair loss. It is excellent for supporting hair loss and regrowth caused by prolonged stress or hormonal changes. New hair grows from a moisturized, nourished scalp.
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Selected fragrance profile: For our Yummy Mummy products, we have chosen the fresh scent of orange due to its known anxiety and stress-relieving properties. The scent combines both calming and mildly energizing effects. In skincare, orange oil balances oily skin caused by hormonal changes, promotes surface circulation, and contains antioxidants.
Perimenopause is a natural part of a woman's life, and it's wonderful that this topic has finally started to be discussed, and the shame surrounding it is diminishing. With the right information, peer support, and quality everyday products, you can embrace this life stage with peace of mind and feel good with body awareness every day.
Explore Days by Dahlia's selection and find your own favorites to support your well-being at all stages, with love.
Sources and additional information:
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Terveyskirjasto Duodecim: Perimenopause (https://www.terveyskirjasto.fi/dlk01118)
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Terveyskirjasto Duodecim: Menopause (https://www.terveyskirjasto.fi/dlk00179)
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Current Care Guideline: Menopause. Working group appointed by the Finnish Medical Society Duodecim, the Finnish Gynecological Association, and the Finnish Menopause Research Society (https://www.kaypahoito.fi/hoi50137)