No Shame in Perimenopause
- Laura Kinkead
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Why HRT Is Empowerment, Not Defeat
Perimenopause can arrive in your thirties or early forties, catching many women by surprise. It is all too common to hear remarks that it only happens to “older” women, or to feel ashamed when symptoms strike. In reality, recognising perimenopause and choosing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a powerful act of self-care, not an admission of defeat.
Early Perimenopause Is More Common Than You Think
Hormone levels begin to fluctuate long before the last period falls. Irregular cycles, mood changes, poor sleep and low energy can appear in your late thirties or early forties. Modern life, stress, diet, and exercise patterns can influence the timing and severity of these changes. If your body is signalling a shift, it simply means your levels of estrogen and progesterone are adjusting. There is nothing to be ashamed of in that.
Reframing HRT as Self-Care
Hormone replacement therapy restores the balance your body needs. By replacing estrogen and, when required, progesterone (if you have a uterus and you are still menstruating, you need progesterone), HRT can help to steady mood swings, improve sleep and strengthen bone and heart health. Far from signalling weakness, deciding on HRT is a clear declaration that you intend to live fully and confidently. Studies show that when started before age 60, HRT can reduce osteoporosis risk and may even protect cardiovascular health. Embracing HRT is an act of empowerment.
Why Childless Women May Experience Earlier Hormonal Changes
Your reproductive history can affect when perimenopause begins. Research suggests that women who have not been pregnant may enter perimenopause up to two years earlier than those who have. Pregnancy and breastfeeding interrupt the usual ovulation cycle, which can extend ovarian function over time. Without those interruptions, the ovaries may exhaust their hormone production sooner. For women without children, HRT can be especially valuable in restoring hormonal support and easing symptoms that might otherwise arrive unexpectedly.
Embracing Hormone Therapy with Confidence
Start by finding a menopause-trained GP or specialist - check out the Australasian Menopause Society list here. Discuss your unique symptoms and medical history so that you can agree on a personalised regimen, whether it is patches, gels, tablets or localised estrogen and progesterone treatments. Regular follow-up appointments will allow you to fine-tune dosage and consider adding testosterone if needed for mood, vitality and libido. This collaborative approach ensures that HRT works for you, not against you.
A New Narrative for Midlife
Perimenopause in your thirties or forties does not mark a decline. It can herald a new chapter of self-knowledge, health and vitality. At Knew You Society, we celebrate every woman’s journey and provide the tools, community and support you deserve. There is no shame in perimenopause and no weakness in choosing HRT. Instead, there is clarity, strength and the freedom to become the Knew You.
Further Reading
Avis NE et al., Menopause, 2015: “Perimenopausal Symptom Onset and Quality of Life”
Santoro N et al., Journal of Women’s Health, 2016: “Hormonal Influences on Perimenopause Timing”
Sturdee DW et al., Climacteric, 2021: “Menopause Hormone Therapy: Benefits and Risks”
Manson JE et al., JAMA, 2017: “Menopausal Hormone Therapy and Prevention of Chronic Disease”
Kaunitz AM., Human Reproduction, 2018: “Reproductive History and Menopause Timing”(if you have a uterus and are still cycling - you need progesterone)
The Definitive Guide to Perimenopause & Menopause by Dr Louise Newson
The New Menopause: Navigating Your Path Through Hormonal Change with Purpose, Power and the Facts by Dr Mary Claire Haver
The Wisdom of Menopause: Creating Physical and Emotional Health and Healing During the Change by Dr Christiane Northrup
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