Lifestyle•Feb 20, 2026

What I Wish I’d Known About Perimenopause in My Thirties

Megan holds a BFA in Dance from NYU Tisch School of the Arts and is a certified fitness instructor. She danced professionally with the NBA’s Brooklynettes. Megan has been recognized by top publications like Vogue, Goop, Shape and WWD, and has worked with world-renowned brands such as Chanel and New Balance. Learn more about Megan

Perimenopause isn’t something a lot of us think about in our thirties—for most women, it starts in their mid-to-late forties—but there are so many things I wish I’d known, heading into my forties, about the physical, emotional, and hormonal shifts that come with this season of life. This transition is a big one, and understanding what’s happening in your body can make such a difference in how you feel. Hormonal health plays an important role in wellness, and it’s time we talked about it more openly. I’m starting to have my own questions about perimenopause, and I’m sharing what I wish I’d known sooner—and how I’m preparing to navigate these changes.

Five women wearing bodysuits with sweat towels in various colors against a light gray background

Surprising things I’ve learned about perimenopause

Since perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause, I had no idea just how early perimenopause can start—some women begin having symptoms as young as age 35. I also didn’t realize how many symptoms can show up long before periods actually stop. Anxiety, sleep issues, mood changes, brain fog, and a constant feeling of being “off” emotionally can all be connected to hormonal shifts.

Letting go of common misconceptions

One of my biggest assumptions was thinking perimenopause could be diagnosed by blood work. In reality, it’s mostly identified through symptoms and patterns over time. It’s a long transition that can last for years, with hormones fluctuating in ways that can impact your energy, emotions, metabolism, and sense of self. It’s not one moment—it’s a season.

Megan Roup in a yoga pose on a light gray background

Megan Roup in a beige outfit lifting weights with a neutral background

My #1 tip: advocate for yourself

If there’s one thing I would tell anyone experiencing what they think could be perimenopause symptoms, it’s this: advocate for yourself and get informed.

Pay attention to patterns in your body—your sleep, your mood, your cycle, your energy—and don’t be afraid to bring that information to a provider who truly listens. You’re not being dramatic. You’re being proactive.

Understanding what’s happening in your body is incredibly empowering. And it’s essential to work with a doctor who has a deep understanding of perimenopause and menopause. You deserve care that reflects what you’re actually experiencing.

What I wish I’d known sooner

In retrospect, I wish I had started educating myself about perimenopause and menopause in my thirties—especially (now) knowing that hormonal changes can begin as early as mid-thirties. I also wish I had gotten my hormones checked earlier, so I would have a personal baseline of key markers.

Five women in variously colored bodysuits posing with silver balls against a light blue background

Megan Roup in a white bodysuit exercising with a dumbbell against a light gray background

How I’d support my body today to help with symptoms

I try to incorporate heavier weights into my workouts, prioritize sleep, manage stress more intentionally, and simplify where I can. This can look like setting boundaries, saying no more often, fueling my body well, and working with providers who understand women’s hormonal health. It’s less about doing more…and more about doing what actually supports my body in this stage of life.

Learning more about perimenopause has taught me how to listen to my body in a deeper, more compassionate way. What once felt confusing or isolating now feels empowering, because I have better tools to support myself through it. Hormonal health matters, and it deserves more open, honest conversation. We’re here to support our members through these physical and emotional changes with movement that meets you where you are, education that empowers you, and a community that reminds you you’re not alone.

Please note: This post is intended for education and support only, and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment plan. If you’re experiencing perimenopause symptoms or have additional questions about perimenopause, please speak to a qualified healthcare professional.

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