Am I Perimenopausal?
One of the most common questions I get asked is: “Am I perimenopausal?”
It’s fantastic that conversations around menopause are becoming more open, but unfortunately, there’s still a lot of misinformation—especially on social media.
Common Myths About Perimenopause
Many people assume they’re not perimenopausal because:
- “I don’t have hot flushes.” – Hot flushes tend to appear later in the transition, but perimenopause can start without them.
- “I’m only 32.” – While perimenopause often begins in the 40s, about 1% of women experience menopause before 40 (known as premature menopause).
- “I still have a regular cycle.” – Your cycle may still be regular in early perimenopause, but hormone fluctuations can still cause symptoms.
First Steps: What You Can Do
✅ Track Your Symptoms – Download the free Balance app, where you can log your cycle and symptoms. You can then generate a free health report to take to your doctor.
✅ Book a Doctor’s Appointment – If possible, request an appointment with a family planning doctor or one experienced in menopause care. A double appointment can give you more time for discussion.
✅ Ask for Blood Tests – Some symptoms of perimenopause overlap with other health conditions. Request tests for iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and thyroid function to rule out deficiencies. If you have a family history of osteoporosis, ask about a DEXA scan to assess bone health. If you don’t get given a test by your doctors, then Livewell do offer at home Menopause tests as well as general health blood testing. Click here to find out more about these.
Preparing for Your Doctor’s Visit
- Bring Your Balance Report & Questions – Brain fog is real, so write down any concerns you want to discuss.
- Discuss Treatment Options – Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is one option, and there are various types to consider. Some women also explore low-dose blood pressure medication or antidepressants to help with hot flushes (even if they don’t have high blood pressure or mental health concerns).
- Ask About Side Effects & Follow-Ups – Make sure you understand potential side effects and when you should return for a review.
Don’t Forget Your Free Health Check!
Mini Health Checks – In the UK, you’re entitled to a free NHS health check at age 40 and every five years after that. However, many people never receive an invitation—so be
proactive and book one!
These checks assess cholesterol, blood glucose, and blood pressure. Since high cholesterol and high blood pressure often have no symptoms, it’s important to monitor them before problems arise.
If you are worried about any of the above you can contact our health and wellbeing team directly on info@livewellhealth.co.uk.
Want to Learn More?
If you’d like further information about our Menopause Awareness webinar or seminar for your workplace, please email info@livewellhealth.co.uk. The webinar/seminar includes: signs and symptoms, treatment options, and a mid-life health checklist so you can get the care you deserve.
About the author: Anjanette Fraser (MSc Nutritional Medicine) is a highly experienced nutrition and women’s health expert with a distinguished 19-year career delivering impactful seminars and webinars to a diverse range of organisations. Clients include corporations such as CGI, IKEA, BP, Network Rail, Hilton Hotels, John Deere, PwC, ICAEW, Coca-Cola,
and Vodafone, as well as numerous SMEs and charities.
With a Master’s degree in Nutritional Medicine, Anjanette combines academic expertise with a practical, relatable approach to health and wellbeing. She is deeply passionate about raising health awareness, empowering individuals and teams to make informed, sustainable lifestyle choices that enhance both personal and professional performance.
Before transitioning to the field of nutrition, Anjanette built a successful career in Corporate Finance, specialising in Mergers & Acquisitions at PwC London. This unique background gives her a deep understanding of workplace dynamics and the critical role that wellbeing plays in organisational success.
Anjanette’s engaging and evidence-based approach continues to inspire positive change, making her a sought-after speaker in the field of corporate health and wellbeing.