Perimenopause Awareness Month

It was a Thursday evening in NYC, and I found myself surrounded by an incredible group of powerhouse women—filmmakers, endocrinologists, authors, gynecologists—you name it. We were all buzzing about a topic that deserves all the spotlight: (peri)menopause.

September is Perimenopause Awareness Month, and let me tell you, I am beyond thrilled that (peri)menopause is finally getting its moment. Growing up, the only time I heard about it was when my mom would dramatically strip down, saying, "I cannot take these f’ning hot flashes anymore!" And honestly, that was the extent of my knowledge back then. But spoiler alert: there’s a lot more to it than just the f’ning hot flashes.

Did you know perimenopause can start 7-10 years before menopause? Oh, and menopause itself? It's literally just one day—12 months after your last period. That’s it. But in that decade-ish of perimenopause, your body’s going through all kinds of changes. So why not take charge and become the boss of your perimenopause, instead of letting it boss you around?

Let’s be real—100% of women will go through this transition. So, let’s make sure you’re going through it armed with the right knowledge and mindset. Ready to crush it? Here are some health pillars to focus on to maximize your well-being:

Physical Activity:

Weight training is your new bestie. If you're a newbie to weights, no worries—start slow and increase as you go. Your muscles (and future self) will thank you.

Nutrition:

Nutrient-dense foods for the win! Make sure you're getting your vital proteins, healthy fats, and carbs. Your body needs fuel to power through this phase.

Pelvic Health:

Knowing your pelvic floor is key to staying strong and active. Just because you’re in this transition doesn’t mean you have to deal with prolapse, incontinence, or painful sex. Nope! Keep those muscles strong, coordinated, and ready for anything life throws at you.

Mental Health:

Perimenopause is a lot. Tuning into your mental health and calming your nervous system can work wonders. Having a go-to toolbox of techniques will keep you grounded and thriving.

Medical Management:

Find yourself a healthcare provider who knows their stuff—ideally, a Certified Menopause Provider. They can guide you through hormone changes and your options, so you're not left guessing.

Finding your roadmap through perimenopause might take some time, but trust me—it doesn’t have to be scary. With the right education and resources, this transition can actually be an empowering one.

If you're thinking, “Wait, I might be experiencing some of this already,” hit reply! Let’s chat and get you set up for success.

Until next time, stay empowered!

Jacklyn