Opening Up About Perimenopause: Charlie Close’s Story

In recognition of World Menopause Day on Friday 18th October, we spoke with Charlie Close, Learning and Development Business Partner at Vertas Group, about her experience with perimenopause. During our conversation, Charlie shared insights from her journey, offered practical tips to empower others, and highlighted the support she has received from those around her.

Trigger warning – These questions are designed to encourage open dialogue, share personal experiences, and offer insights that can help others feel less alone. Please refer to your GP for more information.

Understanding the Experience

What were the first signs that made you think perimenopause was starting?

The first signs that made me suspect perimenopause were having itchy skin, restlessness, and broken sleep, which was unusual for me, along with ongoing tiredness. It was only after noticing these symptoms over a long period and discussing them with friends that I realised I might have been in perimenopause for up to two years.

How did you feel when you realised you were entering this phase? And what symptoms have been the most challenging for you to manage?

I wasn’t particularly worried about entering perimenopause, as I already have two children and didn’t want more. My main apprehension was about the symptoms and how long they might last and make me feel, since some people experience perimenopause for many years. The most challenging symptom for me has been low mood, despite usually being upbeat and sociable, I’ve felt more withdrawn and anxious, not quite myself. It’s not just one symptom, but the overall sense of not feeling like the person I was before that’s been hardest to manage.

Seeking Support

Did you speak to a healthcare professional about your symptoms, and have you tried any treatments or lifestyle changes that helped?

I realised I was struggling and sought support during a difficult period when I didn’t feel right. Initially, I reached out to those around me like my sister, who has been in perimenopause for years and is receiving HRT, and several close friends at different life stages. Our conversations often revolved around changing emotions and experiences as we age, particularly as women, and I recognised that perimenopause was a significant part of this.

Not knowing enough to support myself, I visited my GP, who was fantastic. Unlike some negative experiences I’ve heard about, my GP took my concerns seriously, arranging tests to rule out other causes for my symptoms, such as fatigue, by checking my blood, proteins, and kidney function. To address my low mood and self-esteem, I was also referred to a wellbeing service.

I’ve received strong support from family and friends, and being open about my experiences has helped me. Although I am not currently on any treatments, I have explored HRT and had a positive discussion with my doctor, though there are still some steps to complete before starting. Having these supports and a plan makes it easier to manage my situation.

Talking About It

Are there any myths or misconceptions you’d like to set straight following your experience so far? And has anything helped you feel more in control or empowered during this time?

If I hadn’t spoken to people, I would have held many misconceptions about perimenopause. It’s important to talk openly, whether with someone you trust at home, a GP, health professional, or friends and family. Sharing how you feel gives you a sense of control, regardless of whether you believe you’re experiencing perimenopause or not. The more control you feel, the better equipped you are to address the challenges it brings. Personally, opening up to friends led me to share more with my partner too, helping me regain a sense of control that I felt I’d lost.

Are there any positives or unexpected benefits you’ve discovered?

An unexpected benefit for me has been greater self-awareness. I’m learning more about myself, my feelings, and how I relate to the world. It’s okay to feel like you’re entering a new phase of life; the key is not to be afraid, but to keep talking about it.

Supporting Others

What advice would you give to someone just beginning their perimenopause journey?

My advice is to read about perimenopause and others’ experiences and consult healthcare professionals for support and information. This will help you stay informed and maintain control.

I would also say one of the most important things you can do is talk to someone about what you’re experiencing. Seeking support and talking about what you’re going through is especially important as your hormones shift and change. While mental health advice often starts with “talk to someone”, I genuinely believe this is the best first step. You never know who might offer a perspective or suggestion that hadn’t occurred to you before

Personally, I often find myself scrolling in the evenings to distract my mind. Once I viewed a video on the topic, the algorithm began recommending similar content, which I found quite helpful. Speaking from my own experience, as I navigate perimenopause, these resources have helped me recognise and understand my own feelings and realise that this may be the stage I’m currently in and perhaps have been for some time.

What can workplaces do to better support employees experiencing menopause or perimenopause? And do you feel like you have had this support from your peers?

I believe workplaces should offer time off for appointments and bring in external speakers to discuss topics like menopause and supporting colleagues. Sharing experiences, both my own and from others, can help people understand and manage these situations better at work. It’s also important for everyone, regardless of gender, to know how to support one another. I’ve appreciated the support from my peers, and because I’ve been open, I know I can have honest conversations if I ever need help.

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