PERIMENOPAUSE MY SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

[@darcybrooks9419]

Oh ‘Em! I’m right there with you! I’m 48 and have been in perimenopause for easily the last 8-10 years. It is insane and so real. I’ve also gone through the whole PCOS, infertility chapter and know all that that entails. Blessed to have adopted my sweet boy, almost 8 years ago now, but know what you feel too. You’ve got this! We’ve got this! 🤗🥰

[@carolegeggie2305]

So good to talk about this stage of women’s lives finally as it has been dismissed and we have been told to just get on with it until now. I truly hope the increase in knowledge, the access to good information, our openness will ensure women going forward get the guidance, knowledge, support, medication they need. Well done you for your openness. Thank you. And just by the by Emma - Tou are bloody marvellous x

[@saraho1621]

Omg the palpitations I am so glad you ve said that, I get them all the time suddenly, when I am just sat still. Very strange xx

[@amyb8693]

Im 43 and OMG this is exactly what I've been going through since 2021! Palpitations, restless leg, dry skin, anxiety, low mood, short temper, the dropping things and then that really affecting my mood (ridiculously), insomnia, cant shift weight etc etc. My body just hurts all over like I'm ceasing up. I think women are still so neglected by medical professionals. Mainly because these are usually men who don't have the first clue. I have been put on anxiety medication but suspect that my "issues" lie with being perimenopausal 😢 Thanks for sharing your experience, it's so helpful knowing it's not just me ❤

[@zoestephens712]

I've been peri menopausal since 39, I'm 45 in two weeks but I've finally had enough and I've started HRT. I have very similar symptoms as you but I do get hot flushes and they're awful (and really embarrassing). It's great people are now talking about menopause and are no longer going through it in silence.

[@Paula-617]

This stage of life is challenging. My journey was full of ups and downs. I've come through and gained a bit of belly and a sense of humor. Women are amazing and tough and going through the final chapter of menstruating makes you pause and realize how truly amazing we are. Be kind to yourself you deserve it.

[@michellej5517]

It’s lovely you felt able to share how you’re feeling. I went to the GP 4 years ago at 48 and asked about HRT but was refused because I wasn’t menopausal, it’s amazing to see how things are changing just in the last couple of years and the recognition of peri-menopause and the benefits HRT can bring. I went back to the GP 2 years ago as I was really struggling, full on night sweats that soaked through everything, awful mood swings, anxiety and brain fog. I’m on the mini-pill so that masks what’s happening with my periods which complicates things too. Anyway, I’ve now been on HRT for 2 years, it’s massively helped particularly with night sweats and mood swings but it’s not a miracle worker. My body temperature has increased and I sweat more which is annoying, still have brain fog and anxiety but it’s better. I hope you find things to ease your symptoms. X

[@amandabotterill1000]

Yuppp me 2 then wen I were fifty sed yes gr8 so let us suffer in one month I went thru 4 lots of pills no good so I got everol patches like divina sooomany women do patches are far far better xxc

[@jackiroswell]

Oh Emma you are so brilliant for doing this video ❤ I’m 7 years post menopause and ALL of what you have described is me even NOW 😮 but during Perimenopause I didn’t have a clue what was going on but again like you I took notice of what was happening with my body and just made little changes to feel better and more myself. I’m not taking HRT and there are times I seriously consider getting it but I am yet to go down that road. I guess it’s just how well one copes. Sometimes I feel great sometimes not so much but it’s something us women have to go through no matter what and above all there is help for all and it’s up to us to feel the best we can and enjoy our lives 🥰🥰🥰 Thanks for chatting and hopefully it will help even one person 🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@gilscot100]

Great video Em…. all very relatable. Want to mention that if your gynecologist/doctor does not do it routinely ask to have your thyroid levels checked. Hypothyroidism can mimic PM, also if actually in PM it can extend, and worsen, symptoms, and can also delay going into full menopause. This happened to me. Dreadful heavy periods in my early 50s. Once on thyroid medication (which is for the rest of my life) I went into full menopause almost immediately.

[@kerrywoolford4699]

Thankyou so much Emma for highlighting this im 47 and having all these symptoms too . My memory is the worst had melt downs at work as cant retain information. Ive had restless legs,joint pain ,fatigue , hot sweats ,cold sweats . Ive had stomach issues too . I feel like im losing my marbles sometimes. More needs to be done to help women with this change of life . Your doing brilliant emma ,talking is good x x

[@chrisroylance3109]

I can’t say I know what you mean as I had a surgical menopause, ovaries and everything. I did have hot sweats but I can honestly say that having the hysterectomy was the best thing I’ve ever done. Like you my periods were all over the place and very very heavy. I can honestly say I’ve never looked back.

[@nicolagerrard2154]

Oh Emma every word you said felt like it could have been me saying them, it’s so nice to know we’re not alone in all of this! I’m 46 and started HRT 3 months ago as I was struggling to cope with it all and I was also getting awful hormonal acne which was making me feel even worse! I’m feeling so much better, my skin has improved massively and my mood and all the other symptoms are also loads better, I’m starting to feel like myself again! Lots of love and thank you so much for talking about it xx

[@jilltaylor3855]

I also got hormonal acne aged 50, it was so terrible, gone now thank goodness x

[@sarahralph-neil7137]

Great to hear you talking about this Emma, it doesn't get enough coverage and its such a shame. Obviously you know I went through early menopause so everything you are describing is spot on. I didn't have restless legs but I know a lot of other women who have. The feelings of hopelessness and feeling there was no point in being alive were really bad for me & I knew it was not normal, it was the most awful feeling, also the extreme anxiety, lack of sleep, aching bones & muscles, memory issues, brain fog, weight gain, feeling boiling hot at night(my husband said I was like a radiator), itchy skin & scalp, hair loss etc the list goes on... so after 2 years I opted for body identical HRT and it has made a big difference for me & also helps protect my health, which after my stroke is even more important to me. I'm not sure why us women get such a raw deal arghhh so annoying. xxx

[@gigilou]

Em, thank you so much for being so open and honest about how you've been and are feeling. This was so interesting. I've been wondering if I've been starting with some symptoms and so much of what you've said I totally relate to. I do suffer with CPTSD and depression so a lot of how I feel, I've always just put down to that. I've been taking Setraline for years now and it's really helped to stabilise my moods, it doesn't take away the bad days but the bad days aren't quite as low and dark as they used to me. Sending you so much love and hugs ❤❤ xxxx

[@emmapillinger5015]

Bless you sweetheart. Been there done that. You sound just like me. I am 53 and had my last and final period when I was 45. You are not 'going crazy' this is how it is I'm afraid. You will experience many more symptoms, but it's normal. I went through it without hrt but I did take oil of evening primrose and menopace (Sainsbury's version). I was given sertraline for my mood swings. Definitely worth thinking about. I'm still on it 🤷🏼‍♀️ You will get through it, and you will be just fine. Lots of love Em x

[@lisahooper32]

Really good video, as a 47 year old woman in exactly the same boat it nice to know your not alone. Xx

[@nicollef8080]

All I'm gonna say is 'well done Em'!

[@melaniehawkins8495]

Hi Emma, I’m 53 and definitely in it!!! Everything you have said is spot on! My daughter takes Setraline for her mental health (ocd) apparently it can stay in your system for two weeks if you stop taking it! 🤷‍♀️ They key thing is yoir not alone and we just kept talking about it! Xxx💋

[@julietyler8864]

Spent this whole video nodding along. Related to all of the symptoms, you’re right, the peri stage does suck, we are in limbo. I’m 44, started symptoms at 42, went on hrt last April, mainly to help with symptoms but I’m very into exercise and wanted it to help with joints amongst other things etc. it has helped me with other symptoms, doesn’t make them all disappear but balances things a bit. It’s a minefield, there are some great groups on Facebook that give a place to share.thank you for sharing, this really is a topic that should be covered in school, I was not prepared for the changes at all, also thought initially I was going nuts ❤x

[@joybottomley7569]

Emma thankyou so much for doing this video.never nodded so much in agreement. You articulate everything so well. Sending lots of love❤

[@amandajones8101]

Sertraline for me has been amazing for PMDD. I take it daily already but double up during the 5-10 days premenstrually which is a similar concept you discussed. I thought it was nuts but was desperate. I also started vitex or chaste tree root after doing some research which is reportedly excellent for perimenopause, infertility, in my case regulate my cycle and reduce bleeding due to PCOS. Just read the reviews on Amazon don’t take my word for it. Best of luck ladies. XOXO

[@3timeslucky566]

I found magnesium helped me alot, I was having crazy anxiety and panic attacks for five years, having to leave parties, weddings, shopping trips with my kids thinking I was about to die with a crazy pain in my chest, very bad palpations etc...nothing helped until I started taking magnesium supplements. What a difference, I think I am almost out the other side hopefully or almost there. Hope you can cope with this chapter and things improve... TFS 🤗

[@redvee81]

Your best video yet, well done 👍🏻

[@saramathews1069]

Enjoyed this very much thank you Em. At 62 I’d like to share that whilst one shop might have shut others have opened up. How about liberation from mood swings and period pain. No contraception needed. Less people pleasing hormones so increased lightheartedness and confidence. Light at the end of this admittedly turgid tunnel of perimenopause is bright and encouraging. xxx

[@princesscharlott1983]

Lovely way to put it! Thank you x

[@angelasmith3404]

Thank you so much for being so honest - it’s so reassuring to know what to expect xxx

[@Sue1988]

so informative and need more of this type of video. feel like when I go through the change ill be more prepared thank you

[@reffatkausar1]

I feel everything you have said is so true. I had so many downs and didn’t know what’s happening to my body. It’s been hard and now I’m on hrt which has helped but it doesn’t take it all away. Just look after yourself and magnesium supplements are great in helping. Good luck xx

[@vickyball1540]

Thank you for raising this almost taboo subject Em ❤ Never has anything resonated so much with me and how I'm feeling/symptoms. I'll definitely be checking out the books you recommended and following this journey together ❤️

[@jasenomade]

Thank you for sharing this.... perimenopause is real, more women need to talk about it. x

[@HappyNannyDeb]

Hi Emma, you are just so lovely. I love 'being friends' with you. You are a huge influence and inspiration to sooooo many of us women. You are helping women from all 'menopause ages', races etc. I had every symptom that you've had, I started PM when I was 45, I lived under a black cloud for 3 or 4 years living this awful life. Then my periods stopped at age 49, just stopped dead and then after about 6 months, I started feeling better each week and had more and more good and then great weeks. My skin is normal again, my hair is soft etc. I didn't have any Menopause medication, I did have Citalopram, but this was for depression a after losing my lovely Mom, supporting my son and daughter in law after 6 miscarriages and dealing with Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis. They were pregnant again (no 7), Ian 2017, Mom passed in February 2017, Georgie was born in September 2017, with part of her brain missing and the future was very unsure. She's 5 now and truly miraculously amazing, she's Autistic but also very clever. My 20yr old Daughter has incurable cancer and we are dealing with this altogether, family and friends. My 4 children, grandchildren and very close friends are all there for me all of the time. I'm 60 in August and I love me again now. So hang on in there sweetie, you will get through this and be 'you' again. Keep smiling, looking gorgeous and sharing yourself with us all. Big hugs and lots of love xxx🤗😚

[@carolinethomas2533]

Thank you so much for the video it's like you were talking about me! I think I was going mad and definatley feel like half the person I am. I'm hoping that we will all come out the other side a while lot lighter and freer!!

[@shannajager918]

Thank you for sharing. I'm 37 and can relate to everything. Going to the gynecologist soon to find out more and see if I can find something to make it easier for myself. 🤞🏼

[@Spaceflowerblue]

Thanks for chatting about this. I can relate so much to this! I am 45 and I have been seeing symptoms for a couple of years now. I can feel so stupid sometimes for things, like being clumsy and getting brain fog.

[@7arboreal]

I'm 52 and struggled massively with insomnia and anxiety. HRT and antidepressants saved me ❤.

[@sarahhobbs8534]

Feeling you Emma 😩 I’ve now hit menopause at 48 was in peri menopause for about 5 years before, TBH the peri seemed harder to cope with than the meno but it’s early days 🤞If ever you are feeling low and want to chat please reach out, would be happy to chat with you and share experiences ❤️

[@vandarobinson3286]

Hi totally with you . I am nearly through the first year of perimenopause and my moods are exactly as you describe. I never realised just what an effect and the amount of symptoms. Sharing the journey with you. ❤

[@shelleyroberts3989]

I was diagnosed with premature ovarian failure at 37 they put me on HRT to help with all my pre menopausal symptoms (was still having periods) I fell pregnant at 39 had a beautiful bubba ❤

[@Emma-89]

I'm 33 and I am going through perimenopause. My doctor has been brilliant. Just waiting for my blood test then I'm starting HRT I'm lucky to have been blessed with 3 children. But this is no joke if your going through it please speak to your doctor ❤

[@stevencookson9924]

My periods stopped at the age of 43 I have been lucky I’ve never had hot flushes but did have brain fog a lot in the beginning but now I’m 63 and forgetting things again but works out I was lacking in vitamin D so much better now I’m taking a vitamin .Lynn

[@sallysimpson1390]

I was expecting to be grumpy, hot and tired 😅, peri menopause brought me anxiety and panic attacks clumsiness is def a thing. I cant have HRT so I do meditation and vitamins and its hard, take care lovely Em xxxx

[@annebridges2631]

When the age group of your mum went through the menopause, the word perimenopause hadn’t been invented so we all just went straight to the menopause and unfortunately there also wasn’t the understanding of what women were going through we were just moody miserable and irritable according to others. It’s so much better theses days that women are much more understood. X

[@janehenney1946]

Had a lot of similar symptoms as you. My worst symptoms were migraines before bleeding due, so spent lots of evenings napping. No bleeding one month to the heaviest the next. I also got diagnosed with pre diabeties towards the end. I felt better following a low carb/ sugar diet, especially with the itching in the night.

[@caroledumbleton4448]

I was in perimenopause for 9 years from the age of 46 to 55 and everything you are going through is spot on and for me the nearer I got to menopause the worse my symptoms got. Unfortunately in post menopause not much has changed even with starting HRT once I hit 12 months period free 🤷‍♀️

[@teresahalliday3680]

Em...thank you for the generosity of your sharing! I'm post menopausal but I'm sure this has been helpful to women going through the same thing you are! Off topic, your look so pretty in that dress and your makeup and hair look great. But, I need to know the nail polish brand and color PLEASE!!😁

[@clairhicklin]

Thanks Emma for talking about this, I have started to experience many of the things you mention and thought it was perimenopause but wasn't sure. My cycle had suddenly changed, brain foggy and vacant, tiredness...wish there were some good things to happen during perimenopause!! xx

[@gails9100]

All I can say is that it does get better....at the time it feels endless and hopeless. Moodiness, lethargy, clumsiness, lack of ability to focus, hot sweats, lack of confidence, itchiness, skin changes, apathy....the list goes on. These are all 'normal' symptoms.... ride the wave is the only advice I can give. Doctors offer HRT or anti depressants because there is very little they can really do to help. Until recent years 'the change' has been a very taboo subject which meant that women didn't talk about it...thank goodness that has changed.

[@gails9100]

Emma if you want to try the Pinch of Nom books for healthier recipe options I really recommend because they help me x

[@kathrynhutchinson4838]

This could have been talking about me! Again, I started with low moods during lockdown and put it down to that, had blood tests but they didn’t really pick anything up but I know that can depend on where you are in your cycle. The main thing I’ve noticed recently is the brain fog, I am forgetting the simplest words mid-conversation. It’s awful!

[@TracyJane67]

Hey Emma, I lost my mum when I was quite young so menopause was something of a mystery to me, it wasn't until a couple of years ago after contracting Covid early doors in March 2020 that I realised a lot of my long covid symptoms also mirrored menopause, I'm not on HRT and feel much more like my old self. I'm 55 for reference. Thank you for your honest chat, take care lovely 💕

[@jodikucers2806]

You have just explained so much how I have been feeling, I'm 47 & sure I am perimenopausal just not myself. Feel like a different person, like it's crept up on me. Good to hear your symptoms. 😊

[@carolinedodsworth6481]

I am in my 50 now and have menopause problems .started in early 30...hot flush on face and dry skin all over...

[@laviniajohnson9210]

Hello, this is a subject which affects women in so many different ways so important all the facts are out there for each to learn about. HOWEVER, it may be useful to have your THYROID function checked as many symptoms are the same and if unchecked can have more serious consequences than menopause. Surprised your gp did not suggest this. Having experienced both I wanted to mention this. Best wishes

[@emmamongey675]

I was the same as you in that I used to get a bit low before my period but never snappy or mean. Then things started to change and I would feel so angry. Like raging at things. I spoke to the lady in my Health Food store who is very knowledgable and she recommended Agnus Castus drops. Ive been on them every day for about two years now and they have helped so much. I dont feel so angry all the time. Much more level in my mood.

[@NatashaSummer]

Sending love Em x

[@amiewilson3012]

Have you seen brummymummyof2? She has spoken abit on this topic! Also please don't lose hope on a new life coming into your family it doesn't happen the same way for every mum but that doesn't make them any less of a mum!!! ❤

[@coffeeandcleaning]

It also sounds very much like depression and it wouldn't suprise me if people mistook it for that!

[@ruthie2222]

Can definitely relate to the palpitations. I got them for years! Their nothing to worry about. All part of the hormonal changes. They are still there for me, but have subsided now 😊

[@anthonymartyn5590]

Hi my name is Kate but I use my husband account lol, I have just watched you and it was like looking in a mirror, I have a blue and white gingham dress on today, I sat down with a coffee and as I went to drink you raised your mug,we had the same mug,very spooky lol, every thing you are going through I have been there, I too can't have children and over the years I have learned to live with it but there has always been been hope, maybe a miracle ,you read about women getting pregnant in their early 40s after years of trying and I would pray for a miracle but nothing, I never gave up hope and than the missed period and feeling sick, soar breasts but no the perimenapause loves to mess with your mind and heart, but the worst day was 8 months ago when the periods stopped for good, I don't need to tell you the awful feeling that its over for me,no chance left,no one last roll of the dice,no chance to feel a baby growing in me ,no children, no grandchildren ,no hope and it was than I realised that I had never really come to terms with it at all and was always hanging on to hope,so not just the awful things that have happened to my body and mind but heartbreaking grief for the lost life I hoped for one day,I love your channel because you are the only person I know who can't have children and you will never know have much you help me, I would love to put my arms around you and have hug with a woman who really understands what I feel, people are kind to me but you don't know how it feels but you do,I am sending you the biggest hug ,you are great, thank you ❤ Kate. 😊❤

[@Sarahstorer22]

I'm 43 I have pcos was diagnosed with it in 2005. So my periods have always been all over the place or very heavy. Sometimes was crazy and bleed through clothes. Then miss for months so my periods been crazy since I was 25 so I wouldn't notice a change with periods. I've had a bad life and a lot of trauma. The doctor about 6 years ago put it down to anxiety which I am massively anxious since 6 years ago. All the mood ones you listed I'm like that every other day. I don't like myself and rhink my husband hates me and no one cares. Feel can't handle any little stress, mood swings, irritability at times if noise around me. Palpitations and panic attacks, some nights I wake up warm or like I can't breathe properly. I have itchy dry skin. Doctors said I had low mood with the anxiety tried to give me sertraline and counselling didn't take the meds.had cbt didn't help me. Had blood gets 6 weeks apart said in ok and not peri but I have the symptoms I was put on mini pill been on it a year. Period is lighter but moods still bad and I ache and worn out too still. I take vitamins because my folic acid and vit d are low. Someone I know takes menopace and said helped them. I've struggled with weight with pcos. I went gym and it really helped me tone up. I packed up as I don't have a lot of energy and get worn out so easy so I just do walking alot x

[@Sarahstorer22]

Im not childless but I did have my daughter at 21 with my ex who was physical and emotionally abusing me. Met my husband we both wanted children I found out I had pcos and then struggled to get preg. Couldn't afford fertility and wasnt allowed any cus I had a child. I always feel bad for not giving my husband a child and feel cursed to not have another x

[@lunamoonbaby4865]

I could have written this myself x

[@tracyreay578]

Sending love emxxx

[@cathychaplin5127]

Have read both those books and can highly recommend x

[@Sofiagues]

Im same age as you Emma and im sure im going through it. Its very hard. 😢 I think incan relate to everything you say. Hot flushes, insomnia, body odour, itchy legs, low mood, anxiety, irritability, heavy period lasting for longer, itchy ears? Crying outbursts, weight gain, face changing 😢

[@Lotty68]

I was in full menopause by 45. I am 56 now . My doctor said periods go far apart then close together then stop . I had a few close together heavy ones and then stopped totally . HRT didn’t suit me made me depressed . It’s a tough ride ! X

[@lizevans257]

I just think you are fab Em xxx

[@evebeinguniquebeingme6205]

Ooh to me you were lucky started my period in year 5 of school not fun! 😅 My mum stopped as I started she was 41 she had a terrible time with it she kept 'flooding' and warned me how it was then my periods stopped at 15 and I was diagnosed with severe pcos no periods since the hospital isn't worried says it's just to do with the pcos only worry now is if a cyst bursts but this was a really interesting open video thanks for sharing Em I really hope you feel better soon 💖

[@ldavis3101]

Aw Emma I can totally relate. I'm 47 & been having all the symptoms since my late 30s/early 40s. I also have endometriosis. I opted for the herbal route, I'd recommend menopace plus or Starpowa do a great range of gummies 😊.

[@sharonmcculloch4453]

Omg the clumsiness and palpations is very relatable.... it's great being a woman 😂

[@lisatakeitorleaveit]

Love your dress ❤❤

[@lindseylouisewebb2455]

I have just turn 40 in February still have my good days and bad days

[@amandabotterill1000]

Em wen I were giong thru it I were having a like lot of well I'd just broken up with my now 32 n 29 year old kids but I ended up in mental hospitals but I had had a breakdown diagnosed with bpd I did notice that getting into my forties thort I were just nuts but as I had fibroid at 37 so they put me on the pill that went all the way threw so I didn't have a period my eldest 29 is like been diagnosed with endriodmeries n they sed its unlikely you'll have kids weight gain etc I feel like god I feel bad I had my girls but I were awful with pmt so yeah my mental health 40s absolutely hideous I do think women go thru it as young at beginning of forties is the fact you've been told u csnt have kids like scything that would speed up menopyease there's something that wen I were 47 n sed your on preimenopouease as they wouldn't give h r t till I were proper 50 my god sleepy sweaty shouting defo I did use viobiotics menopace for women it helped lot till last few months it did cal. Down the temper feeling n sweats just thort I'd say xxx

[@tracycotgreave4227]

Good morning Lovely, My Mum, got pregnant with me when she started the menopause, back in the day though, there was no such thing as Perimenopause, I was born in 1965, my Mum was 36. My 2 Sisters were in their late 30s, I started at the age of 32, I was done n dusted by the time I was 38, so a long time, but I went through it with no help from anyone, Dr's would say, oh your far to young. Even now, I get the sweats of a night. It's a nightmare. Exactly what you're saying. The mood swings, the snapping, is still around, but I don't know if that's dealing with my hubby's Dementia, or it's still the side effects. Unfortunately, this is being a woman, so you are not on your own. Also, no matter who your husband, partner, or boyfriend are, men will never understand, there is one thing, it might be relevant, doing the deed, doesn't bother me in the slightest, I'd rather have a good cup of tea. 😂 Just stick with it, Em you will come out the other side. Xxx

[@shileenmckernanpidgeon7682]

I went through menopause at 37

[@mandybothwell3983]

💕💕💕

[@jacquelinetweedy6869]

💞💞💞

[@lucygale336]

Flipin heck your chattin about me 😮

[@jill954]

Omg I started on the first day of secondary school, such rubbish timing 🙄.

[@carolinedodsworth6481]

And stop getting perods now

[@helenwiddowson4784]

❤❤

[@samanthastevens7625]

❤❤❤❤