04/02/2026
Around 13 million people are currently experiencing perimenopause in the UK, which is roughly a third of the female population; despite this staggering number, it's only in recent years that we've been speaking more openly about it...
A study published by BMC Women's Health in 2023 showed that women under 40 had limited knowledge of perimenopause, and more than 60% of menopausal women only began learning about it after their symptoms hit.
There is still a lot of uncertainly around perimenopause so let's clarify some myths -
- Perimenopause arrives after 50
It can begin in your late 30's and early 40's, and sometimes even earlier; hormonal fluctuations begin affecting sleep, mood, skin, memory and menstrual cycles but, because we may still be having periods, we put these changes down to stress or burnout. While perimenopause can begin up to 10 years before menopause, 5% of women experience early menopause before 45.
- It's just hot flushes
While 80% of women experience hot flushes, the remainder do not; a drop in hormones can also result in joint pain, mood changes and digestive issues. This decline affects our brain, gut, joints, skin, bones, cardiovascular system and immunity, so there's more going on than just hot flushes. However, a 2023 study published in Post-Reproductive Health showed that 20% of women found their menopausal experience to be absolutely fine.
- We need to just get on with it
Just because perimenopause is a natural part of aging doesn't mean you have to endure it in silence; with the right tools, many women find increased clarity, energy and stability in this transition. Menopause is not something to endure, but rather something to embrace given the right guidance and support.
- HRT is a last resort
This has become the most effective way of relieving symptoms such as hot flushes, insomnia, anxiety and brain fog, but many women are still cautious of it due to the increased risk of breast cancer, blood clots and stroke. However, benefits include a significant reduction in osteoporosis and fractures, heart disease and diabetes, and improves mood and sleep. There is not a one-size-fits all approach when it comes to HRT and many women opt for holistic approaches over synthetic, but it's not something to be ruled out at any stage.
- Knowledge is only for those experiencing perimenopause
Gaps in education around perimenopause still hugely exist, whether that be employers (menopause policies and general support is few and far between), healthcare (not all providers are trained in this area) or some of the men in our lives. It isn't just a women's issue - it's a health issue, a workplace issue and a societal issue and everyone can and should take steps to learn as much as they can.
Please send me a message via my page or email me at menopause.matters@hotmail.com if you would like to book a treatment 🌸🌸
