It’s time to change the narrative around menopause. Women can be in a perimenopausal state for up to ten years before they reach menopause and yet we don’t talk about it. That’s potentially a full decade of your life where there are physical, psychological and hormonal changes that we’re all supposed to just get on with but that aren’t discussed.

But if perimenopause and her menopausal big sister were part of a general health and well being conversation perhaps the experience of both would be far easier and gentler.

There is a feeling that discussing the changes that come as women age are too personal for general discourse but that is a myth perpetuated by those simply uncomfortable with talking about what a woman goes through in her lifetime. Included in these topics are menstruation, miscarriage and birth. Granted they can be visceral subjects that might be a bit to graphic for some but the fact is that women make up half the population and what we experience month to month and year to year should not silenced.

Because of the lack of discussion around these topics women often don’t realise that some of the uncomfortable symptoms they’re experiencing are part of perimenopause. If you’re over 40 consider chatting to friends or family about any changes that they noticed or went through at a similar age. This can help to normalise what everyone is going through. You might be horrified by night sweats or insomnia until you realise some of your friends are experiencing it too. The thoughts of vaginal dryness might be embarrassing until your friend tells you that she spoke to her GP about it already. Your mood may be up and down and you think it’s stress until you find out that your sister was the same way at your age.

The more we openly discuss what’s happening the more we can understand that changes are common and that there are ways to ease the more difficult ones.

This open conversation is also important to have with your partner so they can better understand your frustration and entering yet another fluctuating time in your life. Start by saying ‘Hey, did you notice I was a bit ratty at the weekend?’ and explain that it’s because of the hormonal changes going on in your body. If you’re calm and rational about the conversation, they will be too.

Don’t forget to turn to the experts for help and advice too. Your GP will be able to give you some advice on the options available to you, both natural and medical. You may also benefit from a supplement specifically targeted at women in perimenopause and menopause.  Each capsule of Cleanmarine MenoMin contains Omega 3, Biotin, Rosemary Oil and Soy Isoflavones along with a range of vitamins to provide nutritional support for this phase of life. Vitamin B6 contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity and along with vitamins B1 and B12 it also contributes to normal psychological function.

It's important to remember that whatever you’re going through, the vast majority of women will have – or have had – a similar experience. Learning more about this phase of your life, and opening up the conversation can help you to navigate this as smoothly as possible.