What is Perimenopause vs. Menopause

Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause. It typically begins in a woman’s 40s but can start as early as the mid-30s. During this time, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen, and hormonal fluctuations become more irregular. Perimenopause can last anywhere from a few months to over 10 years.

Menopause is officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. It marks the end of reproductive years and is typically experienced between ages 45 and 55. After menopause, estrogen and progesterone levels remain consistently low.

Key Differences:

  • Perimenopause: Hormonal fluctuations; irregular periods; onset of symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes.

  • Menopause: A point in time - 12 months without a period; symptoms may continue but hormone levels stabilize.

Complete Symptom Guide

Perimenopause and menopause affect each woman differently, but some common symptoms include:

Physical Symptoms

  • Hot flashes: Sudden feelings of heat, usually in the upper body, often with sweating and flushing.

  • Night sweats: Hot flashes that occur during sleep, often disrupting rest.

  • Irregular periods: Skipped cycles, heavier or lighter bleeding.

  • Sleep disturbances: Trouble falling or staying asleep; waking up too early.

  • Vaginal dryness: Due to decreased estrogen, can lead to discomfort or pain during sex.

  • Weight gain: Especially around the abdomen, due to metabolic changes.

  • Breast tenderness: Hormonal fluctuations can cause sensitivity or pain.

  • Hair thinning or loss: Estrogen impacts hair growth cycles.

  • Dry skin and brittle nails: Common as collagen production decreases.

Cognitive and Emotional Symptoms

  • Brain fog: Difficulty concentrating, memory lapses.

  • Mood swings: Irritability, sadness, or even rage without clear cause.

  • Anxiety or depression: Can be hormone-driven or linked to life changes during midlife.

  • Fatigue: Persistent tiredness not always relieved by sleep.

Other Symptoms

  • Low libido: Reduced sexual desire.

  • Urinary changes: Increased frequency, urgency, or UTIs due to thinning of urethral tissues.

  • Joint and muscle aches: Estrogen has anti-inflammatory effects; its loss can increase discomfort.

Timeline and What to Expect

  1. Early Perimenopause (late 30s to early 40s)

    • Periods may still be regular, but PMS symptoms may intensify.

    • First signs: fatigue, irritability, and lighter sleep.

  2. Mid to Late Perimenopause (mid to late 40s)

    • Irregular periods, skipped cycles.

    • Symptoms like hot flashes, brain fog, and mood swings become more prominent.

    • Fertility declines significantly.

  3. Menopause (average age 51)

    • No periods for 12 months.

    • Ovaries stop releasing eggs, estrogen and progesterone production plummets.

    • Some symptoms may intensify briefly before stabilizing.

  4. Postmenopause

    • Hormones remain low.

    • Risk increases for osteoporosis, heart disease, and urogenital issues.

    • Symptoms may lessen or persist mildly (e.g., occasional hot flashes).

Natural vs. Conventional Treatment Options

Natural Approaches

  • Dietary changes: Increase phytoestrogens (found in flaxseeds, soy), cruciferous vegetables, and whole foods. Avoid processed sugars and alcohol.

  • Herbal supplements:

    • Black cohosh: May reduce hot flashes.

    • Chasteberry (Vitex): Supports progesterone production.

    • Maca root: Known for improving libido and energy.

  • Exercise: Boosts mood, bone health, and sleep.

  • Stress reduction: Mindfulness, yoga, and breathwork can ease emotional symptoms.

  • Acupuncture: Shown to help with hot flashes, sleep, and mood.

  • Functional mushrooms: (Detailed below)

Conventional Treatments

  • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Replaces estrogen and sometimes progesterone. Effective for symptom relief but may have risks, especially for women with certain health conditions.

  • Antidepressants (SSRIs/SNRIs): Used off-label for mood symptoms and hot flashes.

  • Gabapentin and Clonidine: Can help manage hot flashes if HRT is not suitable.

  • Vaginal estrogen: Helps with dryness and urinary issues.

How Mushrooms Specifically Help Hormonal Transitions

Functional and medicinal mushrooms can be powerful allies during perimenopause and menopause due to their adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, and hormone-balancing properties.

Top Mushrooms for Perimenopause:

  1. Reishi

    • Adaptogen that supports adrenal health and reduces stress.

    • Promotes deep, restorative sleep and supports immune function.

    • May help modulate mood swings and anxiety.

  2. Cordyceps

    • Boosts energy, stamina, and libido.

    • Supports hormonal health by nourishing the adrenals.

    • Enhances oxygen uptake and circulation.

  3. Lion’s Mane

    • Improves cognitive function—great for brain fog and memory.

    • Supports nerve regeneration and mental clarity.

  4. Chaga

    • Rich in antioxidants and supports hormone regulation.

    • Helps combat oxidative stress linked to aging.

  5. Turkey Tail

    • Supports immune modulation, important during hormonal changes.

    • May help balance gut health, which is closely tied to hormone detoxification.

Mechanisms of Action:

  • Adaptogenic properties: Help the body cope with stress, which can worsen perimenopausal symptoms.

  • Hormone regulation: Some mushrooms influence the HPA axis and support estrogen metabolism.

  • Gut-brain axis support: Mushrooms aid in gut health, which plays a role in mood and hormonal balance.

  • Anti-inflammatory effects: Help reduce systemic inflammation, joint pain, and skin issues.

Tips for Use:

  • Choose our triple-extracted mushroom tinctures for best bioavailability.

  • Take daily as part of a routine.

  • Consult with a practitioner if on HRT or medications.