You notice that something is changing. You sleep less well, feel more easily irritated, your periods become irregular and your energy seems to be slipping away. You may feel more emotional, or experience ‘brain fog’ that leaves you less sharp. When you bring this up with your GP, you’re often told that you’re too young for…

This could be the perimenopause: a natural, yet often misunderstood stage of life in which your body sends signals that aren’t always recognised. At IKARIA Clinics, we take those signals seriously – and help you regain control of your health.

Inhoudsopgave perimenopauze

What is the perimenopause?

The perimenopause is the transitional phase that precedes the official menopause. During this time, your hormone levels – particularly oestrogen and progesterone – begin to fluctuate. This process can start as early as your mid-thirties and typically lasts between four and ten years.¹

It’s a biological transition just as natural as puberty, yet far less understood or talked about. Because your periods often continue, though irregularly, it can feel like you’ve entered a kind of no man’s land: too early for menopause, too late to blame it on simply being busy.

Signals and symptoms

The perimenopause rarely comes with a label. Many women experience symptoms such as:

Irregular and heavy menstruation
Night sweats and hot flashes
Poor quality of sleep
Tiredness and less energy
Mood swings and irritable
Brain fog - that cloudy feeling in your mind
An increase in abdominal fat, without any change in eating habits
Reduced libido and vaginal dryness

Because these symptoms can resemble stress or burnout, they’re often not recognised as signs of hormonal imbalance.² This can be frustrating — you know something is going on, yet it isn’t acknowledged.

The problem about this grey area

The medical world defines menopause as “12 consecutive months without a period.”⁴ But it’s the years leading up to that point, when the fluctuations and symptoms are often at their peak that tend to fall through the cracks.

Many women are told that their blood results are “still fine” or that their symptoms are “just part of it.” Meanwhile, they no longer feel like themselves. As a result, many start searching on their own through Google, podcasts, forums or supplements. Sometimes this helps, but more often it’s just a collection of scattered pieces. What’s missing is clarity, expert guidance and a plan that truly fits you.

Four steps towards balance during perimenopause

The good news: you don’t have to stay stuck in this. There are practical steps you can take to regain control of your health.

1. Listen to your body – and take yourself seriously
Your body sends signals, even when those around you don’t recognise them straight away. Keep a cycle or symptom journal.³ It helps you notice patterns and strengthens your intuition.

ChatGPT said: 2. Seek integrated guidance – not a one-size-fits-all solution
At IKARIA Clinics, we look beyond just your hormone levels. We also consider sleep, nutrition, stress and mental load. No standard protocol, but a personal plan that fits your life and your goals.

3. Adjust your lifestyle – small steps, big impact

Strength training helps maintain muscle mass and energy levels.
A diet rich in protein and fibre supports hormonal balance.
Limit alcohol, sugar and caffeine, as these can worsen symptoms.
Schedule time for recovery, rest is essential for balance.

4. Get professional testing – insight brings peace of mind
Many women have deficiencies (such as iron, B12, magnesium or vitamin D) without realising it. Hormones like oestrogen, progesterone and cortisol can also be out of balance.⁶ Professional blood testing provides clarity and peace of mind.

You are not alone.

At IKARIA Clinics, we believe every woman deserves expert and accessible support during this stage of life. We take the time to listen without judgement and work with an integrated, whole-body approach.

Our promise: more energy, more clarity and a plan that truly fits you. No vague advice, no overdiagnosis, just an approach that works.

Start today for a more balanced tomorrow

Tired of feeling “off” without knowing why? Ready to regain your energy, clarity and sense of self? Then this is your moment.

The perimenopause isn’t a pause button, it’s an invitation to listen to yourself in a new way. At IKARIA Clinics, we guide you with expertise, care and a personal approach.

Book an introductory appointment today and discover for yourself how small steps can make a big difference.

Bronnen

NHG – Richtlijnen overgang en perimenopauze: nhg.org
Stichting Menopause: menopause.nl
Radboudumc – Vrouw & Hormonen: radboudumc.nl
Thuisarts.nl – Overgang: thuisarts.nl
The North American Menopause Society – Hormoontracking: menopause.org
Hormone Health Network – Hormoononderzoek: hormone.org

This article was written with the support of AI and medical sources.