How do I know if I’m in perimenopause, and what symptoms shouldn’t I ignore? #22

Is this perimenopause - or just life?Perimenopause doesn’t always look the way we expect. It’s not just hot flushes or missed periods. For many women, the earliest signs are anxiety, low mood, exhaustion, poor sleep, brain fog, or a quiet sense that something just isn’t right…and these symptoms are often missed.In this episode of Midlife Answers, I’m joined by Dr Sharma, GP and menopause specialist, to answer one of the most common midlife questions:How do I know if I’m in perimenopause, and which symptoms shouldn’t I ignore?Together, we break down how perimenopause really shows up, why women often wait too long to recognise the signs, and what practical steps you can take to look after your health and wellbeing.In this episode, we cover:What perimenopause is and when it can startCan you be in perimenopause in your early 40s?Early and often-overlooked symptoms like anxiety, low mood, poor sleep, brain fog, and fatigueSymptoms you shouldn’t ignore, including heavy bleeding, palpitations, and persistent low moodBlood tests vs symptom-led diagnosisHow to prepare for a GP appointment and advocate for yourselfPerimenopause isn’t something to push through in silence. Noticing changes early, and taking them seriously, can make a real difference.Coming up on the next episode: Join me next week when I’ll be talking to therapist Suzette about burnout in midlife, and the importance of recognising the early signs, setting boundaries, and giving yourself permission to slow down before burnout takes hold.If you found this episode helpful, follow or subscribe to Midlife Answers, and share it with someone who could use reassurance right now.Listen Anywhere: https://linktr.ee/midlifeanswersRecommended Listening:https://linktr.ee/midlifeanswers - Menopause 101 with Drs Sharma & Wright: a previous conversation with Dr Sharma and her business partner, Dr Wright, covering a wider range of topics including surgical menopause, testosterone, and sex and intimacy in midlife.Find Out More:Dr Sharma: www.spicedpearhealth.comMike Roberts: https://vault.makingdigitalreal.co.uk