Why are women constantly being put into boxes—peri-menopause, menopause, post-menopause—as if our worth and experience are dictated by a timeline? The idea that the moment our cycle changes, we get a new label slapped on us is ridiculous. We don’t do this with men, so why are we expected to define ourselves by a biological shift?
What’s next—peri-peri-menopause at 30? Peri-peri-peri-menopause at 20? Let’s stop reducing women to stages and start focusing on how we actually feel and live beyond these outdated labels.
3 reasons you may be experiencing symptons beyond the menopause labelling:
1. Lifestyle Shifts & Ageing, Not Just Hormones
As women reach midlife, their daily routines often change—more travel, different work demands, caregiving roles, or even newfound freedom.
Sleep disruptions, mood swings, and weight gain may stem from these shifts rather than just hormonal changes.
Example: You travel more, sleep in unfamiliar beds, eat different foods—this can impact digestion, energy, and mood, independent of menopause.
2. Mindset & Social Conditioning
Society tells women that menopause must bring suffering, so many unconsciously expect it and attribute every change to it.
Stress, fear, and negative beliefs about ageing can influence physical symptoms.
Example: If you've been told menopause ruins sleep, you may unknowingly hyper-focus on every restless night, reinforcing the belief.
3. Health & Nutrition
Over Time By midlife, past habits (diet, movement, stress management) start catching up—chronic inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, or metabolic changes can masquerade as “menopause symptoms.” Example: If you’ve been eating processed foods, experiencing blood sugar swings, or lacking essential nutrients, symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, or mood dips may stem from these rather than menopause itself.
So, if you’ve been attributing every symptom to menopause and you've checked in with your health professional only to find nothing much changes, perhaps it’s time to look beyond the label.
Consider the factors we’ve discussed—your lifestyle, mindset, and long-term health habits—and really check in with your body.
Where are these symptoms actually coming from?
Because menopause isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience, and you have far more power over your wellbeing than you’ve been led to believe.
If this episode has got you thinking and you'd like to dive deeper, I’d love to hear from you. Click the link in the show notes to connect with me, ask questions, or find out more. Remember, you’re not defined by a label—you’re in charge of your own wellbeing.
Click link here https://linktr.ee/wendygathercole
Wendy x x
