Can One Be Young Forever?

Perimenopause is not a disease but a natural , biological process.

Today, we feature a question from one of our EPIFEM queens ,a real and heartfelt one that I believe many women silently ask. Her question was about perimenopause, and she mentioned something important: there seems to be so little information about it.

And she’s right. That’s exactly why this platform exists to fill the gaps, to help us understand, prepare, and embrace every stage of womanhood with confidence.

When I read her question, my first reaction before the medical part of me kicked in :

“Can one truly be young forever?”

Just yesterday, I was 20. How am I suddenly 31?

It’s a strange realization that while we may stay young in spirit, our bodies tell a different story. Because as women, our physiology changes with time. Our egg reserve begins to decline, and as that happens, hormone levels follow bringing about all the shifts and symptoms we associate with perimenopause.

And it’s okay. It’s not a failure of the body -it’s transition.

The FAQs We All Want Answered

Every time this topic comes up, I hear the same important questions:

1. Do I need to do blood tests?

2. Can I delay the process?

3.Can I take treatment for the symptoms?

Let’s talk about it.

Perimenopause is the transition period leading up to menopause,the time when your monthly periods begin to slow, change, and eventually stop completely.It doesn’t happen overnight. It’s gradual, gentle, and deeply personal.

On average, perimenopause starts around age 47, though some women notice changes earlier or later. This transition can last about four years before your final period.

What’s Happening in Your Body?

During this time, your hormones especially estrogen start to fluctuate.

One month your levels might soar higher than usual, and the next, they might dip low. That rollercoaster effect is what triggers the symptoms you begin to feel.

Your cycle might shift -shorter, longer, lighter, heavier and with it come signs like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.

Perimenopause is completely normal, but it can feel overwhelming if you don’t know what’s happening. The more you understand your body, the more empowered you are to move through it with grace.

What You Might Notice

Hot flashes: sudden waves of heat that move through your upper body, chest, and face. If they strike at night, they’re called night sweats.

Mood changes: irritability, anxiety, or sadness may appear out of nowhere.

Sleep issues: you may toss and turn more than usual.

Vaginal dryness: this often happens later, making intimacy uncomfortable.

Every woman’s experience is unique some breeze through it, others find it more intense. Either way, you’re not alone.

Do You Need Tests? Not necessarily.

If you’re over 45 and your periods are changing, it’s often enough for your doctor to say, “Yes, this is perimenopause.”Hormone tests don’t always give reliable answers because your levels change from day to day.

However, your OBGYN might do tests if:

There’s a chance you could be pregnant. Your bleeding is unusually heavy or prolonged. Your symptoms could be caused by something else, like a thyroid condition. You’re under 45 and having early symptoms then, hormone tests may help confirm it.

Treatment Options: Finding Relief

1. Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy can be life-changing for many women.Estrogen is the main treatment for hot flashes and other symptoms, and if you still have your uterus, you’ll take it with progesterone for balance.It’s safe for most healthy women under 60, but it’s not recommended if you’ve had breast cancer, a heart attack, stroke, or blood clots.

2. Other Medical Treatments

Low-dose antidepressants can help with hot flashes and mood swings. Vaginal estrogen can relieve dryness and discomfort during sex.

3. Lifestyle Tips

Dress in layers and avoid caffeine or alcohol if they trigger hot flashes. Stay active as it helps your mood, bones, and sleep. Eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin D. Calm activities and take mindful pauses

About “Natural” Remedies-You’ll see a lot of products claiming to “balance hormones” or “cure menopause.” I don’t have much knowledge on this as researchers don’t usually comment much on them as they are not evidence based.

A Gentle Reminder

Perimenopause isn’t the end of youth it’s a transition into another kind of power.It’s the body’s way of saying, you’ve evolved.

You can still be young in laughter, in purpose, in spirit even as your body writes a new chapter.The key is awareness, acceptance, and access to good care.

So, can one be young forever?

Not in the literal sense but in how we embrace change, care for ourselves, and walk through each season with grace… absolutely yes.