Slightly Moody, Mildly Confused: Could This Be Perimenopause? How PT Can Help You Feel Like YOU Again
Perimenopause is the period of time before menopause when your body starts to change. Your hormones, especially estrogen, go up and down a lot during this time. This can cause symptoms that feel confusing or even frustrating. You may already know about hot flashes and night sweats, but did you know that perimenopause can also affect your bladder, sleep, mood, joints, and pelvic floor?
As women’s health physical therapists, we help women through this stage every day. You don’t have to go through it alone—and you don’t have to just “deal with it.”
Here’s how PT can help:
Bladder and Pelvic Floor Changes
During perimenopause, you might notice you need to pee more often, or you may leak a little when you laugh, cough, or work out. You might also feel pressure in your pelvis or have pain during sex. These are signs that your pelvic floor muscles may be too tight, too weak, or just out of balance.
We teach you how to relax, strengthen, and coordinate your pelvic muscles. We also work on your posture, breathing, and core strength; because it all works together!
Strength Training Is Key
As estrogen drops, your muscles and bones can start to lose strength. That’s why lifting weights and doing resistance exercises are so important during this stage of life. We’ll guide you through a safe, effective program that helps you build strength in specific areas that are lacking without hurting your joints. This is not about pushing through pain…it’s about moving smarter!
Helping With Hot Flashes and Heat Sensitivity
Many women struggle with feeling overheated or having sudden hot flashes. At our clinic, we offer private infrared sauna sessions in a calm, controlled setting. Using a sauna regularly can actually help your body handle heat better and support your overall wellness! It can also help with blood flow, muscle recovery, and even stress, which is another big part of hormonal balance.
You’re Not Alone!
Perimenopause is natural, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it. If you’re dealing with pain, bladder changes, sleep trouble, or just feel “off,” there are things we can do to help you feel better in your body.
Physical therapy at Breathe PTW provides a safe, supportive space where you can get answers, build strength, and feel empowered during this time of change. We’re all in this together!
Get Support With Perimenopause From Your Breathe. PTW Team
You deserve care that helps you feel strong, confident, and supported, no matter what stage of life you’re in. Let’s take this journey together. Schedule your first visit today with one of our expert physical therapists in West Des Moines or North Liberty, Iowa!