Photo taken from Shank Tank India
Imagine you're in your mid-40s, juggling career responsibilities, family commitments, and personal pursuits with grace and determination. Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle of life, you begin to notice subtle changes in your body and mood- unexpected hot flashes, body aches, erratic menstrual cycles, and unexplained mood swings. Welcome to perimenopause, a transformative phase in a woman's life that often goes unnoticed and misunderstood. But what exactly is perimenopause, and how does it impact your daily life?
Namita Thapar’s Personal Experience with Perimenopause
Namita Thapar, the Executive Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals, recently opened up about her journey through perimenopause during an episode of Shark Tank India. Reflecting on the challenges she faced during this pivotal period, she candidly shared her experiences, shedding light on the discomfort and struggles she endured. "At that time, I bled so excessively during my periods that even sitting down became a daunting task," she revealed. "I had become anaemic, with my haemoglobin swooping down to 8 (g/dl)."
Despite the adversity she faced, Namita Thapar courageously utilized the platform of Shark Tank to address various facets of women's health, from mental wellness and IVF to fitness and now, perimenopause. With a deep conviction, she emphasized the importance of prioritizing women's health and breaking the silence surrounding taboo topics. "Most women are unaware of the symptoms and treatment options associated with perimenopause," she revealed. Through her vulnerability and advocacy, Namita Thapar seeks to empower women to educate themselves and take proactive steps towards reclaiming their health and well-being. Her openness resonated deeply with social media users, who lauded her for bravely speaking up about this important issue.
This International Women’s Day we acknowledge and applaud all those heroes who bravely used their position and power to spread awareness about matters of grave concern revolving around women's health. We are in awe of Namita Thapar’s brave stand of not only speaking about perimenopause on Shark Tank but also narrating her personal experience to the general public.
What is Perimenopause? - Age at which it occurs
Perimenopause is a natural phase in a woman's life that marks the transition to menopause, that is the cessation of menstruation. Typically occurring in the late 40s or early 50s sometimes even in your 30s, perimenopause is characterized by hormonal fluctuations as the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen. This hormonal shift can lead to a variety of physical and emotional symptoms that vary from woman to woman.
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Signs and Symptoms of Perimenopause
Imagine waking up one day and feeling like your body is playing tricks on you. You may notice changes in your menstrual cycle, with periods becoming irregular, heavier, or lighter than usual. Hot flashes may suddenly strike, leaving you feeling flushed and sweaty at the most inconvenient times. Mood swings may become more frequent, with bouts of irritability, anxiety, or sadness taking you by surprise. Sleep disturbances may disrupt your nightly routine, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night.
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Why does Perimenopause occur?
It's all about hormones. As women age, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone, the hormones responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle and maintaining reproductive health. Once you enter perimenopause, your estrogen levels start to decrease. As estrogen decreases, it throws off the balance with progesterone, another hormone produced by the ovaries. This decline in hormone production triggers the onset of perimenopause and eventually leads to menopause when menstruation ceases altogether.
What's the difference between Perimenopause and Menopause
Perimenopause marks the transitional period leading up to menopause, while menopause itself signifies the permanent cessation of menstruation. Perimenopause typically begins in the late 40s or early 50s, but the duration and intensity of symptoms can vary widely among individuals. In contrast, menopause is officially reached when a woman has gone a full 12 months without experiencing a menstrual period. Menopause marks the end of the reproductive years and the beginning of a new phase of life.
So, if you find yourself experiencing any of these signs and symptoms, know that you're not alone. Consult our Gytree Experts for guidance and advice if you seem to be experiencing these symptoms. Perimenopause is a natural and inevitable part of the ageing process for women, and while it may present its challenges, it's also a time of transition and growth. Check out our Gytree programs like “Thriving Midlife- Holistic Program” for dealing with this key phase of your life. By understanding the changes happening in your body and seeking support from healthcare professionals and loved ones, you can navigate this journey with grace and resilience, embracing the next chapter of womanhood with confidence and clarity.