“I’m tired all the time.”
“I can’t sleep properly.”
“I get irritated more easily than I used to.”
These are common things women tell me. Many assume it’s because of stress, a busy life, or simply getting older.
But sometimes there’s another explanation.
For many women, hormonal changes begin years before menopause itself. This stage is called perimenopause and can start in your 40s, sometimes even earlier.
What makes perimenopause difficult to recognize is that your periods may still be regular. Because of this, many women don’t connect their symptoms to hormonal changes.
You may notice that you’re waking up during the night for no obvious reason. Perhaps you’re feeling more emotional, struggling to concentrate, or finding it harder to cope with stress than before.
That doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you.
Your body is going through a natural transition, much like it did during puberty. The difference is that we rarely talk about it.
Common signs of perimenopause may include:
- Sleep difficulties
- Fatigue
- Mood changes
- Brain fog
- Increased sensitivity to stress
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Changes in your menstrual cycle
- Reduced sex drive
Every woman’s experience is different. Some notice only mild changes, while others find that their symptoms affect work, relationships, and everyday life.
The most important thing to know is that you’re not alone. Many women go through this transition without understanding what is happening to their bodies.
Alma’s Tip
If you’ve started noticing changes in your sleep, energy levels, mood, or menstrual cycle, it may be helpful to track your symptoms over time. In the Lydova calendar, you can log how you’re feeling, monitor your sleep, and record any symptoms you experience. Often, patterns become much clearer when you can see them over weeks and months.
Understanding your body is one of the most powerful tools you have. The sooner you recognize what’s changing, the easier it becomes to find the support and guidance that’s right for you.