Welcome back to Shades of Cool London! Today, we're diving into a topic that's crucial for women approaching their mid 30s and beyond: perimenopause. It's never too early to start thinking about this stage of life, and preparing now can make a world of difference when the time comes.

Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause

First things first, what exactly is perimenopause? This phase, which means "around menopause," marks the natural transition to menopause—a time when your reproductive years wind down. Menopause itself is officially reached when you've gone 12 consecutive months without a period and can no longer conceive naturally.

When does it all start? Well, perimenopause can kick in as early as your mid-30s, though it's more common in the 40s. Menopause typically arrives between ages 45 and 55, but every woman's journey is unique, so the timing can vary widely. The average age of women reaching menopause is 51.

Symptoms of Perimenopause

So, what's in store during perimenopause? You might experience irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, vaginal dryness, and changes in fertility—all thanks to shifting levels of oestrogen and progesterone. It's different for everyone. 

Your Perimenopause Checklist

Let's talk prep! Here's what you can do to set yourself up for a smoother transition:

1. Nourish Your Body: Load up on calcium-rich foods like leafy greens, kefir and almonds to keep those bones strong. Don't forget healthy fats and proteins—think walnuts, lean chicken, and avocado.

2. Watch Your Diet: Limit processed foods, alcohol, and refined sugars. These can mess with your hormones and cause inflammation.

3. Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. A restful night's sleep can work wonders for managing perimenopausal symptoms.

4. Stay Active: Engage in gentle exercises like Pilates, swimming, or hiking. These activities promote flexibility, improve circulation, and reduce stress.

5. Core Strengthening: Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles can improve bladder control and sexual function, easing some menopausal symptoms.

Improving Sleep with a Sleep Dohar

Now, let's talk about how to make those nights more comfortable, especially when hot flashes and night sweats strike. Invest in a Dohar—a game-changer for sleep.

A Dohar is a lightweight blanket, made from three layers of super soft cotton. It's perfect for regulating your body temperature, keeping you cosy without overheating. Pair your dohar with moisture-wicking bedding like a cotton block printed quilt and wear comfy breathable sleepwear to create a cool and comfortable sleep environment.

Check out our Sleep Dohar collection here 

Read more about improving Sleep in our previous blog here 

Embrace the Change with Confidence

Remember, perimenopause is a natural phase of life, and being proactive can make a world of difference. By investing in your health and wellbeing now, you'll be better equipped to navigate this transition with grace and confidence.

At Shades of Cool London, we're here to support you every step of the way.