Busting Perimenopause Myths: What Women in Midlife Really Need to Know

"I see menopause as the start of the next fabulous phase of life as a woman. Now is a time to ‘tune in’ to our bodies and embrace this new chapter. If anything, I feel more myself and love my body more now, at 58 years old, than ever before." — Kim Cattrall

Let’s talk about the elephant in the (very warm) room: perimenopause. If you're suddenly crying at commercials, forgetting your own phone number, or sweating through your sheets at 3 a.m.—you’re not broken, and you're definitely not alone. Too many women are left in the dark about what’s really happening during this hormonal transition, and the myths? They’re loud, outdated, and often harmful. So today, we’re shining a light on the truth. Because when you understand what’s going on, you can stop blaming yourself—and start feeling more like you again.

🔥 Myth #1: Perimenopause is just a minor inconvenience

Truth: Oh honey, this isn’t just a mild case of the Mondays.

Perimenopause can rock your world—physically, emotionally, mentally, and socially. We're talking sleep disruption, energy crashes, mood swings that come out of nowhere, and periods that go full drama queen. According to The North American Menopause Society, hormonal fluctuations during this phase can affect everything from your brain chemistry to your cholesterol levels.

The symptoms of perimenopause are wide-ranging—and they’re anything but minor. From the outside it might look like you're “just tired” or “stressed,” but beneath the surface your hormones are doing a full-on cha-cha. It’s not a blip. It’s a biological shift. But with the right tools and support, you can ride the wave and stay in charge.

🕒 Myth #2: Perimenopause only affects older women

Truth: Let’s put this outdated myth to bed once and for all.

Perimenopause isn’t reserved for women in their 50s—it often sneaks in earlier than expected. Many women start noticing changes in their late 30s or early 40s, even if they’re still getting regular periods. That random night sweat? The anxiety that shows up out of nowhere? The suddenly unpredictable cycles? Yep—those are signs of perimenopause.

This hormonal transition can last for years before menopause officially begins, and it affects women in the prime of their lives—balancing careers, raising kids, and trying to remember where they put their phone (and keys... and sunglasses).

You're not too young. You're just in it—and you’re definitely not alone.

😵‍💫 Myth #3: The symptoms are all in your head

Truth: You’re not imagining things, and no—you’re not crazy.

Those forgetful moments, 3 a.m. anxiety spirals, and fiery rage at the dishwasher being loaded “wrong”? All real. Hormonal shifts in perimenopause directly impact neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, which regulate mood, memory, and emotional resilience.

That means your brain fog, irritability, and random crying spells aren’t overreactions—they’re biological responses to fluctuating hormones. Understanding this is key to reclaiming your power and ditching the shame.

✨ Want to keep exploring how perimenopause affects your mind, mood, and daily life? Don’t miss The Mental Weight of Perimenopause: Why You’re Not Just “Moody”—because understanding what’s really going on is the first step toward feeling like you again.

🛠 Myth #4: There’s nothing you can do about perimenopausal symptoms

Truth: You are not powerless. Period.

There’s no universal fix, but there are so many things that help—from bioidentical hormones and supplements, to nutrition, strength training, sleep hygiene, and stress support. You just need the right map for your body.

I personally swear by progesterone (shoutout for ending my night sweats), regular strength training, and eating enough protein to support my energy, mood, and muscle.

Managing perimenopause symptoms is possible—you just need the right tools and a willingness to experiment.

💋 Myth #5: Perimenopause means your sex life is over

Truth: The end of fertility doesn’t mean the end of intimacy.

Sure, hormones like estrogen and testosterone shift—but that doesn’t mean your pleasure vanishes. In fact, for many women, this stage brings a renewed sense of sexual empowerment. You know yourself better. You care less about what others think. And you’re more in tune with what feels good.

Yes, vaginal dryness is real—but so are vaginal estrogen, lube, and conversations that open the door to better intimacy.

Libido in perimenopause may evolve—but sex isn’t over. It might just be getting started.

✨ Want more support for your midlife mojo? Download Midlife, Moisture & the Missing Mojo: Sex & Relationships After 40—a blog to help you feel connected, confident, and empowered in your body and relationships.

👑 Myth #6: You’re getting old and losing your value

Truth: This isn’t your expiration date—it’s your evolution.

This is the part no one tells you: as your hormones shift, so do your priorities. You start caring less about people-pleasing and more about purpose. You shed roles that no longer fit and begin asking what do I actually want?

Perimenopause isn’t about losing your value—it’s about reclaiming your voice. And that voice? It’s wiser, bolder, and so done playing small. This chapter is yours to write.

The Bottom Line: Let’s Rewrite the Narrative

We’ve been taught to fear midlife. To shrink. To stay quiet about the messy stuff. But perimenopause isn’t something to hide or dread—it’s something to understand and own.

So let’s speak up. Share our stories. Ask the hard questions. And support each other like the fierce, fabulous, hormone-laced sisters we are.

You’re not crazy. You’re not alone. And you’re definitely not past your prime.

You’re a badass perimenopausal goddess—and this is your time.

Hormonally yours,

Kimberlee Erin

✨ Want to support your hormones with every bite? Grab my free Protein Power Plates guide—30 delicious, high-protein recipes designed to fuel midlife energy, balance blood sugar, and keep your mood (and muscles) happy.

Just a heads-up: I’m a Certified Menopause Coaching Specialist and Holistic Nutritionist, and while I love sharing what’s worked for me and my clients, this blog is for informational purposes only. It’s not a substitute for medical advice. Always check in with your healthcare provider before starting new supplements, hormones, or treatments—especially since every woman’s perimenopause journey is different. You deserve personalized care that truly fits you.