Think you might be going through perimenopause, but the hot flushes haven’t hit you yet? You're not alone. While changing periods and night sweats are well-known signs, perimenopause can affect much more than your menstrual cycle. From brain fog and poor sleep to anxiety and changes in libido, some symptoms can be surprisingly easy to dismiss or blame on everyday life, especially if it’s the first time you’re experiencing them in this pattern. So, what does perimenopause actually feel like – and which symptoms might you not recognise?
What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the stage leading up to menopause, when your hormone levels begin to fluctuate. It can last for several years and symptoms can alter over time. For many women, one of the first signs is a change to their periods – they may become heavier, lighter, more frequent or less predictable. But there are plenty of other symptoms to look out for too.
Perimenopause symptoms you might not recognise:
1. Brain fog: Struggling to concentrate, forgetting why you've walked into a room or losing your train of thought mid-sentence? Brain fog is a commonly reported symptom of perimenopause and can be particularly frustrating if you're normally sharp and focused. While not a cure for symptoms like brain fog, Vitawell’s Focus Gummies include a number of vitamins, formulated to help focus the mind and support with overall brain function.
2. Feeling more anxious or irritable: If you're suddenly feeling more anxious, emotional or irritable than usual, changing hormones could be one factor. This doesn't mean every mood change is down to perimenopause, but if it's happening alongside other symptoms, it's worth discussing with your GP. Vitawell’s Relax Gummies are a blend of Ashwagandha, Lemon Balm, and Passionflower, and while they won’t completely alter your mood, they are formulated to support a calmer mind.
3. Poor sleep: "Why can't I sleep anymore?" is a question many women ask during perimenopause. Sleepless nights without a known cause can contribute to frustration and anxiety which can ultimately lead to more disrupted rest. You might struggle to fall asleep, wake throughout the night or find yourself wide awake at 3am. Night sweats can contribute, but sleep problems can happen without them too. For added support, Vitawell’s Night Sweet Dreams Gummies contain magnesium and vitamin B6 to promote a better night’s sleep and greater energy levels in the day.
4. Aching joints: Suddenly feeling stiff or achy, despite not changing your exercise routine? Joint and muscle aches can occur during perimenopause and may be an unexpected symptom to connect with changing hormones. Gentle exercise and strength training can help strengthen joints and relieve stiffness, while Vitawell’s Perimenopause supplements are specially formulated with the right vitamins, minerals and herbal extracts to support symptoms like aching joints, along with other side effects caused by this stage of life.
5. Changes to your sex drive: A drop in libido can be another sign of hormonal changes. Vaginal dryness or discomfort during sex can also occur as oestrogen levels change, which can understandably affect intimacy.
6. Headaches and migraines: If you're experiencing more frequent or intense headaches than usual, changing hormones may play a role. However, new or unusual headaches should always be discussed with a healthcare professional rather than automatically being attributed to perimenopause.
7. Heart palpitations: Some women experience a more noticeable or racing heartbeat during perimenopause. While palpitations can be linked to hormonal changes, there are many other possible causes, so speak to your GP if you're experiencing them.
How do you know if you're in perimenopause?
There isn't one definitive test for perimenopause. For women aged 45 and over, it's usually identified based on symptoms and changes to your menstrual cycle. Keeping a simple symptom diary can help. Track your periods alongside sleep, mood, energy, headaches, hot flushes and any other changes you're noticing. This can help you spot patterns and gives you something useful to discuss with your GP. As your symptoms develop and you eventually progress into menopause, Vitawell has a range of supplements available to support you through this important transitional phase of life.
Think something feels different? Don't ignore it
Perimenopause doesn't look the same for everyone. You don't need to experience every symptom – and some symptoms may have nothing to do with your hormones. But if you've noticed several changes and you're thinking "something just doesn't feel right", it's worth paying attention.
Understanding what your body is telling you can be the first step towards getting the right support.