The Importance of Raising Awareness About Perimenopause
Did you know that September is Perimenopause Awareness Month?
This initiative, led by Clue in collaboration with the “What the Menopause” community, aims to shed light on perimenopause, a transitional phase leading up to menopause.
Let’s dive into why this is so important!
The Current Status and Lack of Information
Despite affecting millions of women, perimenopause is often misunderstood and not talked about enough.
In Germany, 37% of women reported that their health had become worse during perimenopause, with 51% of women saying they experienced sleep disturbances, and 38% reporting mood swings - just some of the symptoms of perimenopause.
A study published in the journal Maturitas found that 54% of women in Germany who experienced menopause-related symptoms said it had a small impact on their work, while 24% reported a large impact! This means that nearly one in four women are significantly affected at work due to perimenopause symptoms, yet many feel they lack adequate information and support - this HAS to change!
The Impact on Women
Imagine dealing with hot flashes, mood swings, and brain fog while trying to keep up with daily life. It’s tough! The lack of information and support can leave women feeling isolated and anxious. This can affect work, relationships, and overall quality of life. In fact, a survey conducted by the German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGGG) revealed that almost 900,000 women in Germany have considered leaving their jobs because of menopausal symptoms.
Why Perimenopause Awareness Month is Important
Raising awareness about perimenopause is crucial for several reasons:
Empowerment: Awareness empowers women to seek help and make informed decisions about their health.
Support: It encourages workplaces and communities to provide better support systems for women going through perimenopause.
Education: Increased awareness helps dispel myths and misconceptions, leading to a better understanding of perimenopause.
Health: Early intervention and support can improve health outcomes and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
How to Raise Awareness and Educate People
Share Your Story: If you’re comfortable, share your experiences with perimenopause on social media or within your community. Personal stories can be incredibly powerful.
Talk to Friends and Family: Start conversations about perimenopause with your loved ones. The more we talk about it, the less taboo it becomes.
Join Support Groups: Find or create support groups where women can share their experiences and support each other.
Educate Yourself: Read up on perimenopause from reputable sources and share what you learn with others.
This website is the hub for perimenopause awareness and is full of so much trustworthy information, resources, personal stories and more - perimenopauseawareness.com
What to Do If You Suspect You Have Perimenopause
Perimenopause is the time during which your body makes the natural transition to menopause, marking the end of the reproductive years. If you think you might be experiencing perimenopause, here are some steps you can take:
Track Your Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, including their frequency and severity. This can help you and your doctor understand what’s going on.
Consult a Healthcare Professional: Speak to your doctor about your symptoms. They can provide a diagnosis and discuss treatment options.
Stay Informed: Educate yourself about perimenopause through reputable sources and support groups.
Adopt Healthy Habits: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques can help manage symptoms.
Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or support groups for emotional support.
To learn more about perimenopause; what it is and more on the symptoms, treatment options - read our detailed blog post here.
By acknowledging Perimenopause Awareness Month, we can break the silence, provide much-needed support, and improve the lives of countless women.
