In a recent study published in Nature, researchers at Flo Health uncovered a startling trend among women in their thirties: many are experiencing perimenopause symptoms without realizing it, and are not seeking support or treatment to manage them. This study sheds light on the lack of education and awareness surrounding menopause and perimenopause, and the urgent need for more research and understanding of these important women’s health issues.
The study, which surveyed 4,400 US women aged 30 and older, found that over 90% of women have never received education about menopause in school. This lack of education has left many women feeling uninformed and unprepared for what to expect during this phase of their lives. In fact, more than 60% of women reported feeling uninformed about menopause.
Even more concerning, a significant proportion of women in their thirties reported experiencing moderate to severe symptoms commonly associated with perimenopause and menopause. These symptoms were measured using the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS), and included hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and more. Shockingly, 55% of women aged 30-35 and 64% of women aged 36-40 met the criteria for moderate to severe perimenopause symptoms.
This study is unique in its focus on early perimenopause symptoms and how they progress, addressing a significant gap in current research. According to a report from Harvard Medical School, less than 1% of published medical studies focus on menopause, leading to gaps in scientific understanding and further neglect of perimenopause in research.
It is clear that there is still a long way to go in understanding and addressing women’s health issues. Even basic bodily functions, such as menstruation, are still stigmatized and not openly discussed. However, it is crucial that we break this silence and start talking about menopause and perimenopause, as they are natural and inevitable parts of a woman’s life.
To learn more about perimenopause and how we can prepare for it, HuffPost UK spoke with Anna Klepchukova, Chief Medical Officer of Flo Health. She shared some valuable insights on how to prepare mentally and physically for menopause.
According to the Flo study, psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depressive mood, and irritability, were highest in women aged 41-45 and lowest in those 56 and over. This can be a daunting prospect, especially for the 30% of UK adults who already experience mental health difficulties. So, what steps can we take to prepare ourselves?
Klepchukova explains that there are things women can do to help them prepare, but it’s important to note that every woman’s experience of perimenopause will be unique. She suggests focusing on overall well-being and health, including good nutrition, regular physical activity, and stress management strategies. These can all support a woman’s body through the changes that happen during perimenopause.
While these lifestyle changes may seem simple, the mental impacts of perimenopause can be more complex. However, Klepchukova believes that there is a way we can help ourselves. She says, “It can help to accept that this phase of life can come with unexpected changes and symptoms, and being open to learning more about how your own body’s needs evolve can be helpful, too.”
She adds, “What I want women to know is that it’s important to listen to their bodies and that they have the right to ask for support when they need it – whether that’s from a healthcare professional, their loved ones, or other trusted resources.”
Anxiety is a common symptom during perimenopause, with up to 50% of women aged 40-55 experiencing symptoms like tension, nervousness, and irritability. Hormonal fluctuations play a significant role in these symptoms, as estrogen helps regulate neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. However, life stressors and other symptoms like hot flashes and brain fog can also contribute to anxiety.
So, how can we reduce our anxiety around perimenopause? Klepchukova suggests prioritizing rest, exercising, getting enough sleep, and using breathing techniques to help reduce anxious symptoms. She also emphasizes the importance of seeking treatment for symptoms, such as hormone therapy (HRT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and anxiety-specific medication.
But what about opening up the conversation about perimenopause and menopause with our loved ones? It’s essential to raise awareness and break down
