I am happy to say that this week I officially hit the milestone of being in menopause.
Medically, menopause is defined as 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. My transition began around three years ago, when my cycles started to change noticeably. Like many women, I experienced a broad range of perimenopause and menopause symptoms along the way.
The transition from the reproductive years to menopause occurs in stages:
Reproductive years – regular menstrual cycles
Early perimenopause – changes in cycle length
Late perimenopause – skipped cycles or long gaps between periods
Menopause – 12 months with no period
Early postmenopause – up to 4 years after menopause
Late postmenopause – more than 4 years after menopause
Many women begin perimenopause in their mid to late 40s, with menopause commonly occurring between the late 40s and mid-50s.
As estrogen levels fluctuate, symptoms may include:
Heavier or lighter periods
Breakthrough bleeding
Breast tenderness
Mood changes and irritability
Sleep disturbance
Dry skin and mucous membranes
Overheating
Low energy
Bloating
Weight gain
Sugar cravings
As estrogen levels fall more consistently, symptoms often shift to:
Persistent fatigue
Low mood, anxiety, or tearfulness
Hot flushes and night sweats
Headaches
Brain fog
Vaginal dryness
Joint pain
For some women, this transition is subtle. For others, it can feel overwhelming. One phrase I hear often is, “I feel like I’m going mad.” This feeling is common and understandable.
The body and brain are undergoing real physiological change. As estrogen declines, many women notice reduced tolerance for people-pleasing and nurturing at their own expense. This can feel like a personality shift, but it is part of moving into a new stage of life.
Menopause is a normal physiological transition, not a condition to be endured in silence. It marks a shift from the reproductive years into a phase of wisdom, clarity, and self-authority.
If your symptoms are interfering with daily life, you do not have to suffer. Targeted nutrition, herbal medicine, supplements, bodywork, movement, and lifestyle changes can make a significant difference.
If you’d like to talk through your symptoms or explore support options, you’re welcome to get in touch or book a discovery call to see if my services are the right fit for you.
PS: I’ve created a Menopause Support Recipe eBook with simple, nourishing recipes to support hormone balance, mood, bone health, and cardiovascular health. Learn more here.
