The Three Stages Of Menopause

May 7, 2021

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It can be hard to feel and see changes in your body over time. But, some changes feel worse than others. One day you’re feeling great, your hair is soft and luscious and you have a thriving sex drive. Then next, you’ve gained some weight, are feeling hot and flustered at the worst of times and your nails feel brittle. What is going on?

While some women go through changes seemingly easy, others go through some challenges during the time we all know as menopause. But, did you know there are three different stages of menopause you should know about? We’ve covered the different stages below, what to expect and what you can do about it.

Perimenopause

When your reproductive hormone changes start to occur and your cycles start to change, this is the period of time most commonly known as perimenopause. The funny thing about this period in your life is that it can last anywhere between a few months and up to 10 years! Some of the biggest changes during this time include ovarian function decline. This leads to a drop in your oestrogen levels. 

What are the symptoms that may occur during perimenopause? There is a wide range of changes which can include:

  • Brittle nails
  • Fatigue
  • Changes to your menstrual pattern
  • Anxiety
  • Hair loss
  • Night sweats
  • Hot flushes
  • Low libido
  • Skin problems
  • Mood swings
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Worsening PMS symptoms

You may notice these symptoms over some time during the perimenopause period and symptoms may be very noticeable or may not be noticeable at all (depending on you and your body).

Menopause

After a full year without menstrual bleeding, this means you’re officially out of the perimenopause period. This is when you will also be menopausal. 

You will generally enter menopause between the age of 45 and 55 and this period can last up to 14 years for some women. Some of the symptoms of menopause include:

  • Brain fog
  • Anxiety
  • Headaches
  • Digestive problems
  • Weight gain
  • Lowered libido
  • Hot flushes
  • Fatigue
  • Insomnia
  • Heightened emotional sensitivity

While the blame often lies with a decline in oestrogen levels as the cause for these symptoms, many women can experience the symptoms of menopause through aging and mid-life stressors.

Post-menopause

By this time, most of the symptoms you have experienced during menopause will have eased because the body can adjust to the lower levels of oestrogen. The majority of women will have a more difficult time during the peri-menopause period than the post-menopause period. Because of the lowered levels of oestrogen experienced throughout these periods, many women have an increased risk of certain health problems such as cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. 

How to support your body naturally through menopause.

Menopause is a normal and natural part of life. Some women require medical intervention and may need certain medications to assist with menopause and certain associated health concerns. But, if you’re looking for some natural ways to help your body, we have some simple tips.

Check on your diet

Your diet and your food intake is your biggest friend during this time. Your body needs fuel to get through these changes, so make sure the food and drink you intake is healthy fuel for your body. Look at high-quality fruits and vegetables with adequate protein and omega-3 fatty acids. 

Consider therapy

Therapy can be beneficial to some women as the changes the body goes through can be rather difficult. Therapy can help you understand some new coping mechanisms and relaxation techniques to get through any challenges you may be facing. 

Try natural supplements

There are a few natural supplements on the market that can help to supplement your body with the vitamins and minerals your body may need to feel better. Vitamins and minerals are best gained through a healthy and balanced diet. But, if you think you may need a boost, a supplement may be beneficial to you. Have a chat with your doctor to discuss your personal needs to ensure you are getting the right balance of minerals each day.

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