Menopause is a journey that every woman experiences differently, yet it often feels like we're all expected to silently navigate the same path. From sudden mood swings and brain fog to hot flushes and restless nights, these symptoms can take a toll on both our physical health and emotional well-being. So, how are you feeling, really?

It's okay at times to admit that you're struggling or feeling overwhelmed. These symptoms are real, and they deserve to be acknowledged. It's normal to feel a range of emotions, and sometimes, the hardest part is feeling like no one else understands what you're going through.

Every woman's experience is unique

Most of us go into perimenopause completely unaware that no two women experience menopause in exactly the same way. The menopausal transition is a unique phase in a woman's life, marked by hormonal changes that can affect menopausal women and midlife women differently. While one woman might find herself grappling with severe hot flushes and aching joints, another might be more affected by anxiety, itchy skin, or insomnia, quite possibly all three. The truth is, most women will experience numerous symptoms along the way, and it’s important to remember that whatever you’re feeling, it’s valid.

At The Menopause Co., we understand that menopause isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience. That’s why our approach is personalised. Our supplements are thoughtfully crafted to support you in the ways you need most, whether that’s boosting your energy, enhancing your mood, restoring restful sleep, or just helping you feel more blanaced and calm.

Understanding menopause: What’s really happening?

Menopause is a biological event in every woman's life, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55, marking the definitive end of reproductive function. What's actually happening during this multifaceted transition is a disparate series of hormonal fluctuations, most significantly, your estrogen and progesterone levels are yo-yoing as your ovaries cease egg production. These unbalanced hormones trigger a wide spectrum of symptoms, from the classic hot flushes and night sweats to the more complex mood changes and mental health manifestations like anxiety or low mood that many women experience.

It's worth understanding that menopause isn't a single biological event, but rather a complicated process encompassing three distinct phases: perimenopause (the lead up period when your body starts this hormonal dance and symptoms often begin), menopause (the point when periods have ceased for 12 months), and postmenopause (the years that follow this transition). Each phase brings its own set of physiological challenges and symptomatic variations, and recognising where you are in this journey can help you seek appropriate support. By acknowledging that these changes represent a normal biological progression, you can approach this transition with greater confidence and self compassion as your body navigates this natural milestone.

Recognizing the signs: Common menopausal symptoms

No two women go through menopause in exactly the same way, but there are some telltale signs that you're likely to spot. Hot flushes, night sweats, and sleep that's all over the place are often the first clues that things are shifting, but loads of women also notice their mood's a bit all over the shop, increased irritability or feeling a bit low. Brain fog, when you can't get your head around things or you're feeling forgetful, is another common grumble, alongside physical changes like vaginal dryness that can really get you down.

Remember, you're definitely not alone in this, millions of women are navigating these same challenges, and acknowledging what you're going through is actually a pretty powerful way of looking after yourself.

Self care is more than just a buzzword

Getting to grips with what's happening during menopause and how it's affecting your mental wellbeing is quite frankly one of the smartest moves you can make while you're navigating this transition. Understanding how your hormones are yo-yoing and connecting that to what you're experiencing day-to-day can help you make more informed decisions about looking after yourself. Self-care isn't just some trendy buzzword doing the rounds, it's actually a vital lifeline for managing both what's happening to your body and what's going on in your head during menopause.

Simple practices like getting your body moving regularly, eating well, and prioritising decent sleep can make a real difference to how you're feeling. When it comes to your mental wellbeing, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other talking therapies are proven tools that can help you tackle things like anxiety and low mood head-on. Don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare professionals, they're there to guide you through this transition and help you find the right support that works for your particular experience. By prioritising looking after yourself and seeking help when you need it, you can navigate this stage of your life with greater confidence and resilience, in whatever way works best for you.

Mind, body, and balance: Taking care of the whole you

Understanding what’s happening to your body can make all the difference, and education has been sadly lacking—knowledge really is a crucial tool in managing perimenopause and menopause symptoms. By tracking how you feel and noticing patterns or triggers, you can take proactive steps to improve your well-being. It’s also important to consider your mental health history and any previous history of mental health issues, as these can influence how you experience symptoms and your risk for mood changes during menopause. Maybe you’ve noticed that stress seems to worsen your symptoms, or that certain foods impact your mood and trigger hot flushes. Alcohol no longer agreeing with you? Yep, that’s a common one too. Be mindful of other symptoms that may arise during this time, such as changes in sleep, confidence, or overall wellbeing.

Taking care of yourself goes beyond just symptom management—it’s about nurturing your whole being, helping your body and brain stay strong for a smooth transition into healthy later life. Simple lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet rich in nutrients, regular exercise (including strength training), and taking ‘time out’ for yourself when needed, can make a significant difference.

I found that keeping my stress levels in check was key to helping manage many of my symptoms. Starting my day with adaptogenic herbs like Ashwagandha, Licorice Root, and Bacopa helped me reduce stress and think more clearly. That’s why we included so many adaptogens and nootropics in our formulas, to help other women feel more balanced and resilient.

It's time to talk about the menopause transition openly

For too long, perimenopause and menopause have been taboo subjects, something to be whispered about rather than openly discussed. But the reality is, millions of women are going through similar experiences, and all at the same time! Talking about how we feel can be incredibly liberating. It helps break down the stigma and reminds us that we’re not alone.

We encourage you to share your story, whether it’s with friends, family, or a supportive community. The more we talk about the different stages of menopause, the more we can learn from each other. Systematic reviews and research in women's health have highlighted the importance of discussing menopause and mental health openly, as these conversations help identify and address emotional wellbeing, mood changes, and other mental health challenges that often accompany hormonal transitions. Together, we can normalise these conversations and create a culture where women, and our daughters generations, feel comfortable asking for help and sharing what they’re going through, understanding the changes and symptoms they may experience, and importantly, the treatment options available.

I often think back to the hormonal rollercoasters of pregnancy and early motherhood, filled with lots of happiness, but also tears, ‘baby brain,’ and fatigue. During that time, I was surrounded by a supportive community, from family and friends to understanding colleagues. But when I first began talking about perimenopause, even mentioning the word seemed to invite strange looks; clearly, it was something we shouldn’t discuss openly. It really was quite a lonely and isolating time. However, as I began sharing my experiences with other women my age, I was amazed at how many of them had similar stories. It was like a collective sigh of relief, knowing we weren’t alone in this. There really is power in community.

Make a habit of checking in with yourself

Amid the busyness of life, it's easy to push aside our own needs. But pausing and checking in with yourself regularly is important. Ask yourself: How am I really feeling today? Am I feeling overwhelmed, tired, or anxious? Am I nourishing my body and mind in the best way I can?

By making this a regular practice, you'll become more attuned to your body's signals and needs. This awareness will help you choose the right support tools, whether that's adjusting your diet, going for a walk to de-stress, incorporating the right supplements that align with your needs, or perhaps seeking medical support. Remember, with all the changes happening to your body, taking care of yourself is not a luxury; it's a necessity for living a healthy, balanced life.

One thing that's really helped me is a simple daily check-in—taking a moment each morning to ask myself how I'm feeling and what I need. Some days, that might mean prioritising a walk in nature to clear my mind, while others, might mean connecting with friends. Being proactive and consistent with small changes has made a noticeable difference in how I feel.

Remember, you are not alone

In my own journey, I found that even with a healthy lifestyle and taking HRT, I still needed additional support. The symptoms I was facing, from extreme fatigue to persistent brain fog, just weren't being fully addressed. After trying various supplements and finding them ineffective, I turned to a close friend, a leading naturopath and herbalist with over 40 years of experience. She helped me take a closer look at the ingredients I was consuming, and together, we developed holistic formulations tailored to my unique combination of symptoms and needs. This collaboration ultimately led to the creation of The Menopause Co., a brand dedicated to providing natural, well-researched, science-backed supplements designed to support your hormones while addressing each woman's unique menopause symptoms, without unnecessary fillers or additives.

However you're feeling today, know that you're not alone. Menopause is a natural part of life, but that doesn't mean it's easy. It's okay to seek support, ask questions, and prioritise your health and happiness. 

At The Menopause Co., we're here to walk this journey with you and help you feel more balanced. Let's continue to have these conversations and support each other along the way.