Is Perimenopause Hitting You at 38? Emma Barnett Shares Her Experience

Emma Barnett's candid discussion about her experience with perimenopause at the age of 38 reveals the emotional and identity struggles many women face during this phase. Her words illustrate how perimenopause can feel like a loss of self, prompting a reevaluation of gender identity and personal experience. In her new podcast, Ready to Talk with Emma Barnett, she aims to create a space for open dialogue about these challenges, advocating for greater awareness and understanding of perimenopause.

Last updated: 7 November 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Emma Barnett has brought perimenopause into the public conversation through her new podcast, where she shares her personal struggles and invites guests to discuss their experiences. This openness is crucial, as it highlights the often-hidden challenges associated with hormonal changes that typically affect women in their late 30s to early 50s. Barnett's narrative underscores the urgency for more resources and support for those navigating this life phase.

Key takeaways

• Emma Barnett's podcast focuses on the emotional impact of perimenopause.
• Perimenopause symptoms can include anxiety, mood swings, and cognitive changes.
• Barnett advocates for normalising discussions around women's health issues.

Timeline: how we got here

Emma Barnett's journey into discussing perimenopause can be traced through several key milestones:

• 2019: Barnett publishes her book, Period: It's About Bloody Time, detailing her experience with endometriosis.
• 2021: Barnett hosts BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour, focusing on women's issues.
• November 2023: Launch of Ready to Talk with Emma Barnett, where she discusses her perimenopause experience.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

In her podcast, Barnett's reflections on how perimenopause has affected her identity are striking. She describes feeling "mugged" by her diagnosis, highlighting the lack of information and support available to women experiencing these changes.

What was already established

Perimenopause is well-documented to occur around the age of 46, but Barnett's experience illustrates that symptoms can begin earlier. Existing literature outlines common symptoms like anxiety, mood swings, and cognitive difficulties, which Barnett confirms through her personal narrative.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The growing awareness of perimenopause and its effects may lead to changes in how women manage their health. Increased discussions around hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and alternative therapies could provide more options for those suffering from symptoms.

Businesses and jobs

Workplaces may need to adapt to better support women undergoing perimenopause, possibly implementing policies that address health-related needs and flexibility for affected employees.

Policy and regulation

As awareness increases, there may be calls for improved healthcare policies addressing women's health, including better access to HRT and mental health services for those experiencing perimenopause.

Numbers that matter

• Approximately 13 million women in the UK are currently experiencing menopause or perimenopause.
• Studies suggest that around 70% of women will experience menopausal symptoms.
• HRT prescriptions have increased by 20% in the past five years, reflecting rising awareness and demand.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Perimenopause: The transitional phase leading up to menopause, often marked by hormonal changes and various symptoms.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): A treatment used to alleviate symptoms of menopause by supplementing hormones in the body.
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): A type of talking therapy that helps individuals manage their problems by changing the way they think and behave.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Listeners of Barnett's podcast may begin to seek more information about perimenopause and consider discussing their symptoms with healthcare providers.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Increased conversations around women's health may lead to changes in workplace policies and more resources becoming available for women experiencing perimenopause.

Signals to watch

• Increased media coverage on women's health issues related to perimenopause.
• Changes in healthcare policy regarding women's access to treatments like HRT.
• Emerging studies and research on the impacts of perimenopause on mental health.

Practical guidance

Do

• Educate yourself and others about the symptoms and implications of perimenopause.
• Seek support groups or communities for shared experiences and advice.

Don’t

• Ignore symptoms or assume they are just a part of aging.
• Feel hesitant to discuss your health concerns with professionals.

Checklist

• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes.
• Consider lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, to manage symptoms.
• Research HRT options and consult with a healthcare provider.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Barnett's experience sheds light on perimenopause, it's important to note that symptoms can vary widely among individuals. Not every woman will experience the same challenges or require the same interventions. Additionally, HRT may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain medical histories. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making decisions about treatment options.

Bottom line

Emma Barnett's podcast serves as an important platform for discussing perimenopause, a topic that has long been shrouded in stigma. By sharing her own journey, she encourages others to seek help and information, paving the way for a more informed and supportive environment for women navigating this phase of life.

FAQs

What is perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, characterised by hormonal fluctuations and various physical and emotional symptoms.

What symptoms can I expect during perimenopause?

Common symptoms include anxiety, mood swings, hot flushes, irregular periods, and cognitive changes, such as brain fog.

How can I manage perimenopause symptoms?

Options for managing perimenopause symptoms include lifestyle changes, HRT, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). It's best to consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice.