Talking perimenopause with Malin
Menopause is not a one-size-fits-all journey. For some, it’s the most challenging time in life, while others breeze through it quite easily. For Malin, it started with a feeling of not recognising herself.
Tell us about your perimenopause journey.
Like many others, it came on gradually over a long period and with quite subtle symptoms. I attended a lecture about menopause at work, thinking that, although I was only 47, it would be good to be prepared for what would come later in life. I had a view of menopause as something that happens in your 60s, involving no periods, excessive sweating day and night, and just being an old lady with an attitude. But then I learned what menopause really is and that it often comes with a feeling of not recognising yourself. The more she explained, the more I realised she was talking about me.
What made you realise you were experiencing perimenopause?
I had constant fatigue despite getting enough sleep. My energy levels were low, and I was never in the mood to do anything. My body changed, and I often felt like crawling out of my own skin because everything and everyone around me was annoying.
What is the best part of perimenopause?
Having no periods! I still have a period once in a while, but it’s not as regular as before. I previously suffered from PMDS, which is very connected to your monthly cycle, so those symptoms have decreased significantly. I’ve heard that the symptoms disappear completely when your periods stop – I’m excited for that.
Another advantage is that it forces you to take better care of yourself to ease your menopause symptoms. The kids are growing up, and you can spend more time focusing on your exercise, diet, and sleep.
"Take a deep breath and remind yourself that you’re not crazy – it’s probably just your hormones taking you for a ride."
Do you have any menopause tips or hacks to share?
For me, exercise helps. Start where you are – just 10 minutes a day in your living room, using your own body weight, will get you a long way. I also noticed a difference from making small changes to my diet – drinking a glass of milk a day, eating more protein from beans and lentils, and taking supplements specially developed for menopause.
Also, on some days, you might feel more emotional or as if you're going crazy. Take a deep breath and remind yourself that you’re not – it’s probably just your hormones taking you for a ride.
Malin’s favourites
“The soft sleep tee is really comfy and keeps me cool at night – no more regular pyjamas. I use the singlet and t-shirt as an everyday base, and they are also lifesavers during hot summer days. And finally – the ultra-comfy cotton period underwear with high absorption. Great for unregular periods and for sneeze leaks during workouts.”
