Thriving in Perimenopause: Empowering Women with Science-Backed Strategies

This is your Women's Health Podcast podcast. Welcome to the Women’s Health Podcast, where every episode is devoted to empowering you with real, actionable information to take control of your health. Today, we’re going to talk about a stage that affects every woman, but is often shrouded in myths and misinformation—perimenopause. Let’s get right into it. If you’re in your 30s, 40s, or even your early 50s, you might notice changes in your body—your periods might become unpredictable, your sleep patterns shift, energy dips, and mood swings can come out of nowhere. That’s perimenopause, the transition leading up to menopause. It’s not just about hot flashes—it’s a major hormonal shift that impacts your whole life. A lot of what we know about women’s health has been filtered through research done largely on men, but as Dr. Stacy Sims, author of “Roar” and “Next Level,” says, women are not small men. Our experiences in perimenopause are uniquely ours, and understanding them is the first step toward empowerment. That’s why I’m thrilled to have Dr. Stacy Sims joining us. She’s a world-renowned expert in female physiology and has dedicated her career to smashing the myths that keep women stuck in outdated approaches to health. Dr. Sims, thank you so much for being here. Dr. Sims, let’s start with the basics: What exactly is perimenopause, and how does it typically show up for women? Many women feel lost or frustrated during this time. Why do you think so many of us struggle to get clear answers or effective support from our healthcare providers? How do hormone fluctuations during perimenopause impact both our physical and mental wellbeing? Can you walk us through some of the most misunderstood symptoms? Let’s talk about exercise and nutrition. You often say, “Women shouldn’t train like men.” What do you mean by that, especially during perimenopause? Are there specific approaches to movement and recovery that can help women feel stronger and more energized? Weight gain, brain fog, and changes to libido get a lot of attention. Which lifestyle shifts do you recommend to address these concerns in a way that supports, rather than fights, our bodies? What about emotional health? Perimenopause can be an emotional rollercoaster for many women. What’s your advice for supporting mental health during this transition—and how can friends and family be allies? As we close out, what’s the single most important thing you want women to know about this time in their lives? Listening to Dr. Sims, it’s clear that perimenopause is not something to just “get through.” It’s a powerful period of change that deserves attention, compassion, and evidence-based care tailored to women’s real experiences—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Our key takeaways today: Perimenopause is normal. Your symptoms are real. You deserve science-backed support, not dismissal or shame. Move your body in ways that feel strong, eat to support your changing metabolism, and trust your i This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.