What Is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the natural, transitional phase that leads to menopause — but make no mistake, it’s a season all on its own.

Unlike menopause, which marks the end of menstruation, perimenopause is the journey toward that milestone. It can begin as early as your late 30s or 40s and often lasts anywhere from 4 to 10 years.

What’s Happening in Your Body?

Hormones like estrogen and progesterone begin to fluctuate wildly — not just decline. That fluctuation impacts everything:

·         Mood (anxiety, irritability, low motivation)

·         Sleep (insomnia, night sweats)

·         Body (weight changes, hot flashes, brain fog)

·         Cycle (irregular periods, heavy bleeding, skipped cycles)

·         Heart and nerves (palpitations, panic feelings, unexplained chest tightness)

This isn’t in your head. It’s in your hormones — and it’s real.

Why Aren’t More People Talking About It?

Because for years, women were taught to suffer in silence.

Because symptoms don’t show up the same for every woman.

Because perimenopause often mimics other issues like anxiety, depression, heart trouble, or digestive problems — leading to misdiagnosis or dismissal.

But not anymore.

At Savannah Sisterhood Circle, we break the silence with real talk, faith, and shared strength.

How Do You Know If You’re in Perimenopause?

Here are a few common signs:

·         Periods are changing (shorter, longer, heavier, or skipping months)

·         Trouble sleeping or waking drenched in sweat

·         Feeling like you’re “losing yourself”

·         Anxiety or dread that seems to come out of nowhere

·         Brain fog, forgetfulness, or trouble focusing

·         Increased sensitivity or mood swings

·         Weight gain, especially around the belly

·         Decreased sex drive or vaginal dryness

If you’re checking several of these boxes and you’re in your 30s, 40s, or even early 50s — welcome. You may be in the shift.

A Faith-Based Reminder

You are not broken.

You are not crazy.

You are not alone.

You are being transformed — and God is still with you in every wave, every tear, every sleepless night.

He’s the God of the valley and the God of victory.

“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you…”

— Isaiah 46:4

Understanding the Shift You’re Feeling

Many women enter perimenopause without warning or guidance. 

One day you feel fine, the next, your body, emotions, and energy begin to shift in unexpected ways. 

You might wonder: “Why do I feel like something is wrong, even when the tests say I’m fine?”

You’re not imagining it. You’re not alone. And you’re not broken.

You’re simply shifting — into a new season of womanhood.

Common Symptoms of Perimenopause

Women may experience symptoms like:

• A deep sense of anxiety or unease (sometimes called “doom feeling”)

• Heart palpitations or tightness in the chest

• Random panic attacks or emotional overwhelm

• Chronic fatigue or feeling like you’re “always sick”

• Night sweats, hot flashes, and sleep disruptions

• Brain fog or trouble focusing

• Weight changes, bloating, or intense cravings

• Low moods or irritability without clear reason

Many of these symptoms are linked to hormonal changes — especially fluctuating estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol levels,

which affect your nervous system, digestion, sleep, and emotional balance.

What You Can Do: Support + Self-Care

 Check your levels: Ask your doctor to test your estrogen, progesterone, thyroid, and cortisol.

 Track your symptoms: Use free apps like Balance or MySysters.

 Support your body with:

• Magnesium, B-complex, and Omega-3 supplements

• Gentle movement like walking or stretching

• Herbal teas, cooling sheets, or a wind-down bedtime ritual

• Breathing exercises or grounding prayers

 Spiritual Encouragement

“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. 

I have made you and I will carry you…”  (Isaiah 46:4)

This season is not your undoing. It’s a divine transition. And God promises to carry you through it.

How to Care for Your Body (Without Shame)

You are not broken. Your body is transitioning, not deteriorating. Let’s move from judgment to gentleness.

Helpful Practices:

·  Stay Hydrated: Hormonal changes can cause dehydration. Keep water nearby.

·  Magnesium & B Vitamins: These support sleep, mood, and nervous system health.

·  Eat for Balance: Include leafy greens, omega-3s, and foods rich in fiber and calcium.

·  Rest Without Guilt: Listen to your body and honor your fatigue.

·  Move Gently: Stretching, walking, or slow dancing all count. You don’t need to “push through.”

Wisdom Tip: “Be still and know…” includes being still with your body (Psalm 46:10). Recovery is also sacred.

 6.3 Sleep, Stress & Hormone Support

You may feel tired but wired. Restless but exhausted. You’re not lazy—your nervous system is adjusting.

What helps:

·  Cool your room before bed

·  Chamomile or lavender teas

·  Soothing music or scripture meditation

·  Journaling your thoughts out before sleep

·  Reducing screen time an hour before bed

“He gives His beloved sleep.” — Psalm 127:2

Speak this over your night.

 6.4 Faith-Rooted Wellness Reminders

Sometimes you don’t need a supplement—you need support. Other times, a walk with worship music is more healing than a hard workout.

Remember:

·  You don’t have to do this alone.

·  You don’t have to get it all right.

Your body is not betraying you—it’s becoming.