Do perimenopause symptoms get worse just before menopause?

As hormones begin to fluctuate during perimenopause, symptoms can often appear and differ in intensity, but what worries many women is if these symptoms will get worse as they head into their menopause years.
So, this week, I explain what can happen to your symptoms as you go through perimenopause and head into menopause.
0:00 Do perimenopause symptoms get worse just before menopause?
01:21 What happens to your perimenopause symptoms just before menopause?
04:50 What can you do to help yourself?
05:15 Start with the basics
06:32 Take control of your symptoms
07:52 Seek knowledge and support
09:07 Prioritise yourself!
Products mentioned in this video:
Menopause Support - www.avogel.co.uk/herbal-remed...
Sage for hot flushes and night sweats - www.avogel.co.uk/herbal-remed...
Liked this video? Subscribe to our KZbin channel for lots more videos like this and don't forget to hit the bell icon so you can be notified of all my new videos.
Also, check out my A.Vogel Talks Menopause playlist for over 200 menopause videos, covering lots of different symptoms and issues during menopause: kzbin.info/aero/PLm...
Want to read about this and get more menopause support and advice? Head over to my blog:
www.avogel.co.uk/health/menop...

[@Godisfirst21]

I'm 49 and I knew it was at it's very worst just before Christmas. I told my adult daughter that I just didn't know if I could take it anymore, or carry on with this much dread and depression in me. I was crying all day. My boobs were so sore. My daughter so wisely said, "it must be the end soon and that's why it's so bad." She was right. Since then I've LIFTED from the dark clouds and I do feel on the other side of a bad trip now. My boobs are not sore and my last two periods were just a little spotting. My grandmother was 50 when she had her last period. I know I'm done because I feel completely different and I haven't felt this good in years.....maybe ever. That's how I know I'm on the other side. I love life again. I have been looking up nudist resorts and FUN things to do over 50, lol. I have no small children, no grandkids, no husband and no pets. I feel so free, but you can't feel free with a cloud of depression looming over you daily. Don't beat yourself up for your horrible moods or suicidal thoughts. I wanted to die so often. It's hormones. I know much more now than I did at 47. Wow, I want to give myself a hug. I am going to spoil myself and take great care of myself in my 50's. I suffered enough. My anxiety is also gone. I never thought that was possible.

[@GuidedByAngels]

Wow,what a powerful inspiring message, this really shows us that better times are coming, thank you so much for sharing and im so glad all is well 💛🥰

[@sarahhaka]

You deserve that hug! Glad to hear things are better after it all for you. I'm about 6 weeks away from being classed 'officially' menopausal. Things are starting to feel a bit more balanced with little glimmers of normality returning. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@Godisfirst21]

@@sarahhaka Whoop whoop Congratulations! May I please ask your age and how long would you say you went through symptoms before your period stopped? Did you take anything for it? I smoked cannabis.

[@Godisfirst21]

@@GuidedByAngels Thank you! Can you please share your age and where you are at in your journey right now? I still can't believe that today is March 1st and I haven't cried since before Christmas. lol I would just walk around the house crying and that's not me. I never thought I'd find myself again. Are you taking any meds for your symptoms? I used cannabis and I slept so much in the past two years. Sleep was my comfort.

[@GuidedByAngels]

@@Godisfirst21 im nearly 46, perimenopause, and managing my symptoms naturally atm, periods are ok,just a bit heavier but dealing with headaches, hot and cold flashes, aches, pains,nausea, dizziness, and many other things too,it seems to vary every month 💛

[@pattycake8272]

I know you have saved me through what was becoming a mental break down because of confusion. I feel so much better. Starting a even just a talking about it group would be a good idea.

[@AvogelCoUk]

You're absolutely right Patty cake, talking with others who are going through the same time and getting that support can make a huge difference. I'd love to see support groups everywhere! Best Wishes Eileen

[@Hephzibah-eq9kr]

How are you?I feel the same way you do.

[@yvonneblair8403]

Your menopause talks a miracle working injection. I am eperiencing almost all the rough symptons. Your advice on healthy habits such as excercise me time and eating properly has helped me to cope. Sometimes I feel so sick but o am copingg. God bless you as you continue to support. Yvonne from Jamaica.

[@AvogelCoUk]

You're welcome Yvonne, so glad I'm able to help in some way. Continue the good work, you'll get there! :) Best Wishes Eileen

[@wickedwest89]

Love the reminder to prioritize ourselves!! I think recommendations to start your own women’s group is great…probably not thought about. You are helping in ways that you cannot measure!

[@AvogelCoUk]

Thank you for your kind comments Lori! Best wishes Eileen

[@lisahudson9883]

I'm 50 yrs old my migraine got worse l've awful period pains. heavier periods.terrible anxiety/depression/fatigue / insomnia.it's terrible what woman go through. I feel like absolute shit I think I'm losing my mind.

[@AvogelCoUk]

Sorry to hear that you're really struggling Lisa. Have you had your iron levels checked recently? Heavy periods can quickly cause anaemia and this can then trigger all your other symptoms! Best Wishes Eileen

[@angelicaflores505]

The same thing is happening to me! I've been getting heart palpitations and chest pains😢

[@GuidedByAngels]

Wonderful video, thank you so much ❤

[@AvogelCoUk]

You're welcome Liz! Best Wishes Eileen

[@carlacorbin2202]

Thank you you are a big help.I as I mentioned before that I hadn't had a period for two years now I seem to be having these symptoms alot less especially breathing but it not as before I try to walk as often as I can. So continue the good work

[@AvogelCoUk]

Great to hear that things are improving for you Carla, great result! :) Best Wishes Eileen

[@shirinheroabadi]

Great information! Thank you!

[@AvogelCoUk]

You're welcome Shirin Best Wishes Eileen

[@shirinheroabadi]

@@AvogelCoUk Best wishes for you too!

[@rehnumaparveen2355]

I am 42 and i have started getting all these symptoms. Anxiety is the worst beast. My pms are bad. I have started getting hotflashes and night sweats. Moods swings are huge and very subtle changes in monthly cycle. Sometimes it is 24 days sometimes it is 27 and sometimes it is 30 days. Earlier it used to be clockwise correct on 27th day. But anxiety, panic feelings, feeling of doomed is the worst. I really dont know how to manage.

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Rehnuma You may find the herb Agnus Castus can be helpful in this situation although it can take a couple of months to start showing benefit. I would also add in some magnesium, approx 150mg twice a day, as this can help with mood and anxiety. Acupuncture can often be good for balancing the hormones as they start to fluctuate so worth looking into. Best Wishes Eileen

[@NaturalHealingAlchemist]

💯 same! I’ll be 42 in May and this sounds like me.

[@angelametcalfe2141]

I love your clothes and your fashion sense Eileen! Also, I love the wealth of information you give to us! Thank you!

[@AvogelCoUk]

You're welcome and thank you so much for your kind comments Angela! Best Wishes Eileen

[@marasperoni7794]

You are so helpful❤❤

[@AvogelCoUk]

I am so happy to be able to help!

[@clearahenderson9339]

You are a blessing to us because the pas 3 years I was so sick I believe was the flu but it was not the flu It was menopause

[@AvogelCoUk]

So glad to be able to help Cleara Best Wishes Eileen

[@islandgirl7281]

These weekly vlogs are a great help to so many ......I wish i knew about this channel wayyyyyy earlier but better late than never and am glad i know about it now as it has helped me in so many ways.....these vlogs has taken the fear out of menopause because of the weekly information i recieved .....this was another good one...thanks Eileen🌹

[@AvogelCoUk]

Anytime, Island Girl :)

[@islandgirl7281]

@@AvogelCoUk A big thank you as always

[@SongsbyCharleneApril]

I am 49, my periods are very wonky. Lots of pelvic pain/pressure, bowel issues too. I got checked by my Dr.’s nothing was wrong per se, nothing was seen on scans or other tests as abnormal. Although physically I feel very off, my mood and libido are good. No depression, no crazy mood swings or anything, thank goodness. I am having a light spotty period right now after no period for 3 months. Hoping this is my last bleed. Can’t wait till my hormones settle down and level out to a new normal.

[@AvogelCoUk]

Fingers crossed for you! Best wishes EIleen

[@Christine83507]

Love your videos! Have you seen verticals fingernail ridges as a sign of peri menopause? I have strong raised ridges and fine lines on my finger tips. Started in my mid-thirties. Women in my family hit full menopause at 43 usually.

[@curlywurly661]

Ohhh I thought it was just me with the nail ridges and defo worse during perimenopause

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Saymac I answered this query on my other video blog but here it is again, if you missed it! Nutritional needs go sky high in the menopause and if you're short of even one vitamin or mineral, the hair, nails and skin are often the first to suffer. You may find a specific nail supplement can help here; you can get these from health shops. Wrinkles on fingertips can indicate dehydration so remember to drink lots of plain water every day! Best Wishes Eileen

[@Christine83507]

Thanks again Eileen! Really appreciate your advice. I’ll give these steps a try. Thanks for replying ❤️

[@Tee-kc3pn]

That's also a sign of diabetes

[@patriciakeats1621]

I’m feeling so much better at 50. I’m not sure if the roller coaster is over, or just simply because I don’t work full time anymore. The other thing I do is take Tylenol, and Advil, and magnesium, and meal supplements, and it helps the days go well when I’m working. My periods are 24-28 days apart…I’ve only had one late cycle 2 years ago. The physical pms occurs some months…the emotional side of is much, much easier. I wish I knew where I’m at with things…

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Patricia If you're still getting regular periods then you are in the perimenopause even though you may be getting some menopause symptoms. Best Wishes Eileen

[@lafettemorgan6676]

My doc tried to gaslight me but I stood up to him, and after all my labs came back normal, much to his surprise(because I'm obese) only then did he say he believes it's the perimenopause.

[@cxazzychickengurl.3753]

Thank you 🙏

[@AvogelCoUk]

You’re welcome 😊 Best Wishes Eileen

[@RegisteredNurseL.A.]

All I know is I itch everywhere even though I moisturize daily. I’m getting zits and retaining water like a sponge. My body hurts to touch and I don’t know if it’s too much estrogen or too much progesterone. I’m 49 and had just my uterus removed in 2008 but I have my ovaries. I feel like complete crap. March 30 I weighed 125. September 3rd I’m almost 150. I didn’t change my diet and I’m exercising more so I’m so confused

[@Christine-xl9ti]

Thank you :)

[@AvogelCoUk]

You're welcome Chris! Best Wishes Eileen

[@charmainebronstorph5977]

May the good lord help me in what I'm going though now 🙏 ,turn 50 March and it just started 2 months ago, Thanks so much was looking up things about premenopause on Google just now and started reading and see a KZbin channel and me just subscribe immediately.

[@AvogelCoUk]

Welcome Charmaine, hope we can help you! Best Wishes EIleen

[@curlywurly661]

Thank you for another brilliant video, so helpful. I have regular acupuncture which has been a total game changer along with Chinese herbal products twice daily, only down side is the expense.

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Helen I found acupuncture amazing and believe it made such a difference for me! Yes, the expense can be a bit of a burden! Best Wishes Eileen

[@celestetyndale5994]

Thank you so much for your video's they have help me alot learning about my body, I'm having a problem were I loss my smell what can I do to get it back I'm really feeling uncomfortable without my smell?

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Celeste You're welcome, glad to be of help! Sense of smell can be affected and often caused by low zinc and possibly dryness of the mucus membranes in the nose. You may find a zinc supplement, 15mg daily, and Sea Buckthorn Oil capsules helpful, may take a month or so to start showing benefits. Remember to drink lots of water too as dehydration could be a factor too. Best Wishes Eileen

[@celestetyndale5994]

@@AvogelCoUk Thank so much I just started on the Zinc supplement and also on the Buckthorn.

[@AvogelCoUk]

@@celestetyndale5994 do let me know how you get on

[@amandaroper1297]

8 months ago I was in a very busy season of life with my children's softball and baseball and just general life. I was eating large amounts of sugar and not taking very good care of myself. During that time I started having major anxiety and panic attacks. And every perimenopause symptom you can think of. Is there a possibility that that happened because of my busy lifestyle and poor choices? If I revert back to a healthy lifestyle and take time for myself can those things get better?

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Amanda Absolutely, we know from experience over the years that many women find symptoms are worse when the diet isn't very good or there's lots of stress and no relaxation! Making a few adjustments to diet and making a bit more time for yourself can often make quite a big difference so definitely worth doing! Best Wishes Eileen

[@lovelocked5385]

48 My periods for awhile kept getting earlier and earlier then they now remain on time. What does that mean?

[@Godisfirst21]

You will notice that they will change again and not be regular. Some may be 28 days, then one will be 50 days apart, then one may be 18 days. You'll know you're close to menopause as they will be all over the place and then they will get lighter.

[@marinalina6348]

Does osteoarthritis have anything to do with perimenopause and hormone imbalance?

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Marina Yes, joint aches and pains are quite common in the perimenopause and menopause. I have posted a video blog on this and what you can do to help yourself so please do take a look www.avogel.co.uk/health/menopause/videos/joint-aches-and-pains/ Best Wishes Eileen

[@aileenassad6458]

Hi Eileen I just subscribed to your channel you’re doing a wonderful job 👍 I’m 48 years mum of 4 kids my last three babies were ceaserian babies I was always on time but since February this year 2023 I have not had periods symptoms keep coming and going I have always had 8 to 9 days every period since I was 13 years old , I’m really stressed can you tell me what’s going on 🙏

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Aileen Missing periods is often one of the first signs that the perimenopause is starting, this is quite normal. You can also start to get menopause symptoms such as anxiety, however, if you're worried at all then please speak to your doctor. They may be able to offer you a hormone test to see what's going on. Best Wishes Eileen

[@aileenassad6458]

Thanks so much Eileen fir your prompt reply , I have never missed a cycle so this is putting me under lot of stress I have booked an appointment on the 4 April with my gp unfortunately getting an appointment here in Melbourne Australia is a real struggle 🙏

[@AvogelCoUk]

@@aileenassad6458 yes, it's the same here! Do let me know how you get on.

[@curlystayreadytv1455]

Hello can you discuss when women bladder gets weaken and how to get early handle on it thanks you🙏🏾

[@Godisfirst21]

I had to change many things. I don't drink as much water. I drink a lemon water every morning. Eat small portions. Walk everyday.

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Curly StayReady I have posted a video blog on this and what you can do to help yourself so please do take a look. www.avogel.co.uk/health/menopause/videos/common-bladder-problems-and-infections/ Best Wishes Eileen

[@curlystayreadytv1455]

@@Godisfirst21 I’m usually drinking tuns of water but lately since the weakened bladder I’m just drinking about 3 oz in morning 😂 especially when going to work but I tend to get my water in at night .. I started taking flaxseed in my smoothies and oatmeal it’s helping me so much and I’m very active with exercise and a healthy diet but thank you 😊 🙏🏾

[@curlystayreadytv1455]

@@AvogelCoUk thank you😊🙏🏾

[@pallavisreetambraparni6995]

Eat more oatmeal and bananas and prunes and or drink more prune juice. Eat more leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, broccoli, etc... Get more fiber.. Make sure your're not constipated. Try to have at least three bowel movements per week.

[@poornima31971]

Hi, any tips on how to deal with dry skin and scalp? I am 50 and my water intake is good. I don't have any hot flashes no any major.

[@Godisfirst21]

coconut oil works great for me and for my skin I use Aveeno Restorative therapy cream. It's amazing!

[@poornima31971]

@@Godisfirst21 , thanks for the reply. I too use coconut oil. It gives temporary relief. Anything which works internally?

[@Godisfirst21]

@@poornima31971 Do you use coconut oil internally? i go to a naturopath and she recommended that I use it internally if needed. You must be careful not to use anything internally that has chemicals or fragrance. Oatmeal can be amazing on the skin and in baths. I stopped taking baths and only take showers and me skin loves me for it. I also shower every second day and use baby wipes to feel fresh on my off day. When the weather is very dry and cold here in Canada, I will go a few days without a shower and just wash what needs to be washed....arm pitts and butt.

[@poornima31971]

Hello Sherry, thanks for all the tips , will follow them. I live in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India The weather here varies by the day and within the day, leading to health issues for me. Will try using virgin coconut oil for cooking. Regards Poornima

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Poornima You could also try a supplement called Sea Buckthorn Oil capsules as this is known to help menopausal dry skin see www.omega7.co.uk for more information Best Wishes Eileen

[@sunithadeoraj6455]

Hi dear. I had a hysterectomy 7 years ago. I had a laparoscopic salingo oophorectomy. 2 weeks ago.by the way I am 49. I am miserable with hot flashes. As the day ages I am hot n smell. On the patch Highly depressed 😞. Please help Fluctuating hormones 😑

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Sunitha I am so sorry to hear that you are struggling at the moment, unfortunately a full hysterectomy can create huge stress for the body to cope with. I would suggest a herb called Maca to help support your nervous system and acupuncture can often be really useful in this situation, so worth looking into. Best Wishes Eileen

[@caramelfrappuccino234]

I have Hashimoto Thyroiditis. Ive read that the fall in hormones can trigger fiare ups. Do you have experience with this one ?

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Caramel Yes, we do know that the menopause can cause existing health conditions to get worse including thyroid issues. Acupuncture may be helpful for this so worth looking into Best Wishes Eileen

[@pallavisreetambraparni6995]

I am 47 and heavy bleeding and itchy skin and redness on my skin and cramps and acne is the worst and so is having frequent urination and having accidents is the worst too. I am so scared all the time about spoiling my good clothes. I am always wearing either disposable underwear or bladder control pads with cotton underwear because the disposable underwear cause chaffing and redness. And I need to wear pads also whenever I menstruate. I can't wait when all this over.

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Have you seen your doctor about the heavy bleeding? Although this can happen on the approach to the menopause, it is not good for you and can cause anaemia. This in turn can trigger a raft of other conditions such as fatigue, low mood/anxiety, hair loss, joint pain. Your doctor can test your iron levels and also make sure that other health issues such as fibroids, polyps/cysts or even a prolapse are not contributing to the bleeding. A prolapse can also affect bladder function! Best Wishes Eileen

[@garimashrivastava13]

Hi ..Is skin sagging n pigmentation is perimanopuse symptoms...??

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Garmina Yes, these could be menopause symptoms but skin pigmentation can be caused by other factors so best to get a proper diagnosis from your doctor first. Best Wishes Eileen

[@chimewangmo936]

As per me,I felt better n stress free after changing my mind to keep myself happy by entering in TikTok.I felt much better.I noticed Walking is the answer for low energy body,good sleep n protein n good fats rich diet.

[@AvogelCoUk]

That's a great result! Keep up the good work. Best Wishes Eileen

[@amandaroper1297]

Do phytoestrogen help with protecting your heart and bones during menopause?

[@AvogelCoUk]

Yes, Amanda they can be of benefit too! Best Wishes Eileen

[@victoriaboster1177]

@@AvogelCoUkThis is complete misinformation and scientifically inaccurate.

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hello Victoria You may be interested in this research summary from 2019. Desmawati D, Sulastri D. Phytoestrogens and Their Health Effect. Open Access Maced J Med Sci. 2019 Feb 14;7(3):495-499. doi: 10.3889/oamjms.2019.044. PMID: 30834024; PMCID: PMC6390141. Increasing the amount of phytoestrogens in the diet is a simple way of tackling many aspects of menopausal transition, with an excellent risk: benefit ratio. Best Wishes Eileen

[@shirinheroabadi]

Is hyperpigmentation a premenopausal symptom?

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Shirin Yes, this can sometimes happen, falling oestrogen can affect the pigment balance in the skin, either lightening patches or forming darker ones. Best Wishes Eileen

[@shirinheroabadi]

@@AvogelCoUk Thank you so much, I wonder why doctors say there’s no reason for it.

[@sujatasinha6680]

Hello I am 43 and experiencing some imbalance while i stand up and that constant fear of falling is always there for the last 4-5 years, can it be due to hormonal imbalance? My doc says you are too young to have perimenopause coz my periods are almost regular

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Yes, this can happen and may be due to circulatory changes, low blood sugar levels or dehydration. Make sure that you are eating little and often and drinking at least 1.5 litres of plain water daily. Some women do start to experience hormonal changes towards the menopause without this affecting the monthly cycle Best Wishes Eileen

[@shwethanarayana456]

At what age does these symptoms begin

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Shwetha The average age to start the peri-menopause is about 45 although it can start earlier for later for some women. It can often be hereditary so if you know at what age your mum or aunt or sisters started the menopause that may give you a clue. Best Wishes Eileen

[@charmainebronstorph5977]

Mine send me in the hospital March 2 months ago was sleeping and felt so sick pressure went up heart racing run blood text it shows its premenopause from then I'm 🙃 not myself anymore.

[@angelicaflores505]

It can start as early as 35

[@opangkoklapongen3445]

​@@charmainebronstorph5977same thing happened to me.

[@carliebeau5329]

I developed fibro cystic breast. All cells non cancerous. But the absolute disability of it. I'm 53, and no signs of menopause. I can't continue. Someone said I might have to be prescribed Tamoxifen. I'm sure I will develop breast cancer at some point. If so I'll smoke a lot of pot.

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hi Carlie You may find seeking the advice of a Herbalist or Naturopathic Doctor helpful, they can formulate a personalised treatment plan for you with support. Best Wishes Eileen

[@kalebremillard7720]

❤❤❤

[@shirinheroabadi]

Is hyperpigmentation a symptom of pre menopause?

[@Godisfirst21]

Try apple cider vinegar.

[@shirinheroabadi]

Thank you! It doesn’t burn?

[@Godisfirst21]

@@shirinheroabadi You can dilute it to make a 50/50 mixture with water. I use it straight and keep it on for 10 minutes before my shower. Watch some youtube videos on it.

[@shirinheroabadi]

Thank you so much!

[@Godisfirst21]

@@shirinheroabadi Also type into youtube....lemon juice and baking soda and hydrogen peroxide for hyperpigmentation.

[@kalebremillard7720]

😀🙌

[@heidibishop6331]

Dr so unhelpful 😢

[@AvogelCoUk]

Sorry to hear your doctor has been unhelpful. There are more menopause literate doctors out there so you may want to find a new doctor! I know it can be hard though.

[@victoriaboster1177]

I’m so sorry because you seem like such a well-meaning person, but some of this is just misinformation and completely baseless. We do not have any extra caloric need in peri or menopause or even post as we do in for example, pregnancy. We aren’t using any more energy than pre perimenopause. This is but one example of truly anti scientific and anti medical advice.

[@AvogelCoUk]

Hello Victoria You may be interested in this review - Silva TR, Oppermann K, Reis FM, Spritzer PM. Nutrition in Menopausal Women: A Narrative Review. Nutrients. 2021 Jun 23;13(7):2149. doi: 10.3390/nu13072149. PMID: 34201460; PMCID: PMC8308420 - where the increased requirement for dietary protein is clearly indicated, alongside its positive impact on health for menopausal and post-menopausal women. Best Wishes Eileen

[@victoriaboster1177]

@@AvogelCoUk Well jeez if this is the best you can site please rethink your entire platform. Consider the authors’ site rate which is extremely low, the fact that this is not a study but a Rampling poorly constructed review from not from a extra respected institution … but! most important of all READ THE ENTIRE REVIEW YOURSELF PRIOR TO SITING IT! The body and conclusion support and explicitly state that the authors (one of which has questionable credentials to start with) conclude that the recommended protein intake, not increased, is adequate and advices for menopausal women. The body of the review also clearly delineates declining energy needs pre and post, again contradicting your own claims. So you have offered a review that contradicts information you continually feed your female viewers as facts. Thank you for the clarifications. As I stated earlier, you seem good hearted and very nice. What you do not seem is in possession of medical facts or a basic science background. Perhaps your offerings should stick to those areas unaffected by what you lack until you choose to catch up.

[@AvogelCoUk]

Thank you for your comments Victoria Best Wishes Eileen